HCG (Fertility) Research Guide
Full name: HCG for Ovulation Trigger (Pregnyl/Ovidrel)
Used as an ovulation trigger in assisted reproduction protocols. The LH-mimicking activity of HCG causes final oocyte maturation and ovulation approximately 36 hours after injection, timing intercourse or egg retrieval.
How HCG (Fertility) Works
Binds LH/CG receptors on the dominant follicle, triggering resumption of meiosis in the oocyte, luteinization of granulosa cells, and follicular rupture (ovulation) within 36-40 hours of administration.
Dosing Protocol
- Typical dose: 5000-10,000 IU (Pregnyl) or 250 mcg (Ovidrel)
- Frequency: Single injection timed to follicle maturity
- Duration: Per cycle
- Route: Subcutaneous or intramuscular
Reported Benefits
- Precise ovulation timing
- Final oocyte maturation
- Corpus luteum support
- IUI/IVF timing coordination
- Luteal phase support
Potential Side Effects
- Ovarian hyperstimulation risk
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Mood changes
- Pelvic discomfort
- Multiple pregnancy risk
Research Citations
- HCG trigger timing in IUI cycles (2021) - HCG trigger at 18mm follicle size optimized pregnancy rates (22% per cycle) vs earlier or later trigger timing.
- Dual trigger (GnRH agonist + low-dose HCG) (2022) - Dual trigger reduced OHSS incidence by 90% while maintaining equivalent oocyte yield in high-responder IVF patients.
Related Fertility Compounds
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