You might think testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) would boost fertility. After all, testosterone is famous for revving up men’s sex drives, and low testosterone is associated with decreased fertility. In reality, TRT can actually reduce sperm production. That’s why some doctors pair TRT with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a hormone that helps protect fertility.
Historically, men on TRT were past their reproductive years. But recent research shows a 58 percent increase in testosterone prescriptions for 35- to 44-year-old men and a 35 percent increase for those 45 to 54. 1 One driver: Testosterone levels in younger men have dropped significantly. A 2021 study found a 25.5% decline in men ages 15–39 between 2000 and 2016. 2
HCG mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), which stimulates the testes to produce testosterone and sperm. “Over the last five to 10 years, evidence suggests that prescribing human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) along with TRT can preserve sperm parameters in men on testosterone therapy,” says Amy Pearlman, M.D., a board-certified urologist. In fact, she offers hCG to all her patients on TRT who want to preserve fertility—a practice echoed by a 2018 clinical review. 3
Curious whether hCG should be part of your TRT protocol? Here’s what you need to know.
Amy Pearlman, M.D., a board-certified urologist specializing in male sexual and hormonal health.
Larry I. Lipshultz, M.D., professor of urology and chief of male reproductive medicine and surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston
Joshua Calvert, M.D., a board-certified urologist specializing in men’s hormone health and fertility
is it worth running an oral”only cycle for your first time
tips for traveling with your gear and syringes safely
how to spot fake gear: a guide to testing your supplies
Latest Post: Nandrolone Phenylpropionate vs Decanoate (DECA) Benefits Our newest member: Josh Sutton Recent Posts Unread Posts
