Bodybuilders, athletes, and anybody else trying to improve performance are increasingly choosing human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).
We will go into great detail on how HCG works, what it can do for you, and any negative effects it might have. We will also discuss various HCG usage tactics, with an emphasis on PCT, as well as female users’ needs.
Continue reading to understand how HCGs can be useful if you want to increase your testosterone levels naturally and safely after using steroids or other performance-enhancing substances.
What is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)?
The hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), which is produced by the placenta during pregnancy, is crucial in controlling how the ovaries, testes, and other reproductive organs develop and work.
HCG can be used to treat hypogonadism, or low testosterone, in men that results from abnormally low testicular output.
Symptoms of low testosterone include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, exhaustion, depression, and cognitive decline.
HCG, a hormone that supports men’s general hormonal health and aids in the stimulation of natural testosterone production. Due to the fact that it lessens the side effects of a sudden withdrawal from testosterone-boosting drugs, people frequently use it during post-cycle therapy (PCT).
HCG can be used in a variety of ways during PCT. HCG can be taken by some men alone, but it can also be combined with other drugs such SERMs (selective estrogen receptor modulators), which assist in controlling estrogen levels.
How does HCG work in the body?
HCG functions by attaching to particular cell surfaces receptors known as gonadotropin receptors. This first action starts a complicated series of processes that boost testosterone secretion and production.
There is still much to learn about the precise mechanics underpinning this process. However, it appears that HCG has an impact on a variety of actions that contribute to the regulation and production of testosterone, including the secretion of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and the growth of Leydig cells.
Because of this, HCG is frequently seen as the best option for men who want to keep their testosterone levels in check after using steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs for a cycle.
Why is HCG commonly used as part of a post-cycle therapy (PCT) protocol?
HCG is commonly used during post-cycle therapy (PCT) because it aids in suppressing the negative effects of a sudden withdrawal of testosterone-stimulating drugs.
Your body normally stops making and secreting its natural testosterone when you use anabolic steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs.
But when you quit using these drugs, you may have a number of unpleasant side effects, including poor libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass and strength, exhaustion, melancholy, mood changes, and trouble focusing.
Therefore, by utilizing HCG during PCT, men can quickly and successfully return to normal hormone levels.
What are some of the benefits of using HCG for PCT?
HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone that has a variety of uses in the world of bodybuilding.
Here 5 Common benefits:
Increase testosterone levels
The main advantage of taking HCG for PCT is that it promotes testosterone production.
Increasing testosterone levels can aid in promoting muscle growth and recovery because testosterone is the hormone that causes muscular growth.
The hormones LH and FSH, which are important for the production of testosterone, are likewise elevated by HCG.
Improve fertility
HCG may increase fertility. This results in an increase in sperm quantity and motility in males. It raises ovulation rates and egg quality in females.
Additionally, HCG can assist in regulating the menstrual cycle and lowering the chance of miscarriage.
Preserve lean tissue
HCG may be able to aid in the preservation of lean tissue.
Your body will start to break down muscle tissue for energy when you are in a calorie deficit.
According to studies, taking HCG when in a calorie deficit can aid in maintaining muscle mass and preventing muscle atrophy.
Reduce side effects from anabolic steroids
The use of HCG during PCT can lessen the negative effects of anabolic steroids.
These steroids are artificial hormones that have a number of negative side effects, including gynecomastia, acne, and hair loss (enlarged breasts).
According to studies, administering HCG before, during, or after a cycle of anabolic steroids can lessen these negative effects.
Relatively safe and effective PCT option
A relatively safe and efficient PCT option is HCG. It may cause certain adverse effects, such as weariness and headaches, but these are usually minor and disappear on their own within a few days.
HCG vs Aromatase Inhibitors vs SERMs
There are numerous things to take into account when selecting a post-cycle therapy (PCT) choice, including as safety, efficacy, and simplicity.
When compared to aromatase inhibitors or SERMs, HCG is a relatively safe and efficient PCT alternative. The risk of anabolic steroid adverse effects can be decreased while testosterone levels can be raised.
Because of its possible negative effects, it might not be appropriate for everyone.
On the other hand, aromatase inhibitors are potent drugs that aid in preventing estrogenic adverse effects.
They accomplish this by blocking the body’s natural aromatase enzymes while on PCT. Aromatase inhibitors like letrozole and anastrozole are widely used.
These drugs aren’t for everyone and often have significant adverse effects.
Another option for PCT is SERMs, such as tamoxifen or clomiphene citrate. These drugs work by preventing the body’s estrogen receptors, which can assist to lower estrogen levels and avoid adverse consequences including gynecomastia.
Hot flushes and mood swings are two more negative effects that they can cause.
In the end, the PCT you choose will rely on your personal requirements and tastes.
HCG can be a good option if you’re seeking for a secure and efficient approach to replenish your natural hormone levels after using steroids or other performance-enhancing medicines for a cycle.
If you want a more tailored strategy, such as when you want to avoid estrogenic side effects, aromatase inhibitors or SERMs may be preferable.
HCG and Steroids
The use of HCG during steroid cycles is controversial, with some contending that it might result in dependence and other negative side effects.
Steroids are frequently used by bodybuilders to gain more energy, stamina, and muscular mass. By producing hormonal imbalances, taking HCG in addition to steroids may cause disruptions in the body.
Male users of HCG, in particular, may have reduced testosterone levels, which may have a detrimental effect on their ability to build muscle and strength.
Some people think that HCG can cause hormonal imbalances by interfering with the hormone’s ability to naturally regulate testosterone production in the hypothalamus-pituitary-testes axis.
Additionally, some HCG users claim to have adverse effects such exhaustion, depressed mood, headaches, nausea, and irritability.
Due to the risk of dependence and discomfort, many bodybuilders choose not to use this substance during their steroid cycles.
HCG for Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)
HCG usage can be a beneficial addition to your post-cycle treatment (PCT) plan despite certain possible hazards.
The main purpose of HCG during PCT is to increase the body’s natural testosterone production. It also guards against the negative effects of estrogen, such as gynecomastia and fluid retention.
It accomplishes this by acting similarly to the Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which encourages the production of testosterone in the testes.
For people cycling with substances like anabolic steroids or prohormones that restrict endogenous LH levels, the greater testosterone can be beneficial.
For the best outcomes, many specialists advise bodybuilders to include HCG in their PCT program.
HCG Dosage
You must strictly adhere to the dosage and administration guidelines when using HCG. The hormone is available as a powder, which you combine with sterile water.
The resulting solution must be injected intramuscularly, and any leftover solution needs to be refrigerated. Typically, HCG dosages are tiny, and you must administer injections frequently.
As a result, it’s critical to measure the powder precisely and combine it with water.
Failure to do so may result in unintended adverse effects or unsuccessful treatment.
You can maximize the benefits of your HCG treatment by carefully following the directions.
HCG Dosage During Anabolic Steroid Use
There are a few considerations when utilizing HCG during an anabolic steroid cycle. The maximum frequency of HCG ingestion should be once every 3 to 5 days, which is first and foremost.
All that is required is a small dose of about 250iu. Beyond this point, there is no purpose to increase intake because there is no additional benefit.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that HCG should only be used in the second part of a steroid cycle because it can affect the body’s normal testosterone production.
HCG Dosage for Increased Endogenous Testosterone Secretion and PCT
It is critical to take into account a number of parameters while using HCG for increased endogenous testosterone secretion and PCT in order to choose the right dosage and duration of treatment.
Some of variables include your physiology, the type and strength of your steroid cycle, and how you react to the hormone.
Depending on the degree of their testosterone suppression, the majority of users will begin with a dose of 1000iu every 3–4 days.
If necessary, the intake can be gradually increased to 4000iu each dose.
Depending on your body’s reaction to the hormone and the degree of suppression caused by yoursteroid cycle, the course of medication will normally last between two and three weeks.
Female HCG Dosage
When compared to male users, women often take lesser doses of HCG more frequently. Women may consume 500iu every two to three days, for instance.
The increased frequency aids in the prevention of gynecomastia, water retention, and other estrogenic adverse effects like bloating.
Additionally, to further suppress estrogen levels and maintain their hormone balance throughout PCT, female users can also take modest dosages of auxiliary substances like Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) or Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs).
HCG Side Effects
Hair loss, greasy skin/acne, and increased body hair growth are possible HCG adverse effects. The degree of these symptoms varies from person to person and is frequently brought on by hormonal changes in the body.
It might be embarrassing for some people when increased body hair growth occurs occasionally in odd locations like the chest or stomach.
In order to effectively control it, it could also need a treatment such depilatory creams or laser hair removal.
HCG-induced hormonal alterations might also result in acne and greasy skin. In order for the clogged pores and breakouts caused by this skin problem to go away completely, skin care treatment or even prescription medication may be required.
Rarely, HCG users may develop hair loss on their heads, typically shown as a thinned or receding hairline.
A chemical imbalance in the body brought on by HCG is what causes baldness. However, otherelements like stress or inadequate nutrition also contribute.
Common Q&A about HCG
Are there any other considerations to keep in mind when using HCG during PCT?
It is typically preferable to supplement HCG during PCT with supplementary substances such Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) and Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs).
These substances can aid in the management of steroid-related adverse effects include bloating, water retention, and gynecomastia.
To achieve the best outcomes, it’s imperative to adhere to the dosage recommendations for these extra medications.
Is HCG illegal?
No. HCG is legal. HCG, however, needs to be taken by a doctor’s prescription and should only be used as directed.
Does HCG cause cancer?
There is no proof that HCG contributes to the development of cancer. However, there is always a chance for negative effects with hormone therapy in general.
Before beginning treatment, you must go over the advantages and disadvantages of HCG therapy with your doctor.
Can you buy HCG online?
Indeed, you can get HCG online. But you should only get it from a reliable supplier. HCG can be harmful when it is sold by numerous businesses as phony or counterfeit.
Always get medical advice before beginning any hormone therapy.
How does HCG work in the body?
A peptide hormone called HCG imitates bodily signals associated to reproduction and fertility.
It encourages the production of testosterone by the testes and aids in treating low testosterone side effects include decreased libido, diminished muscular mass, and exhaustion.
After steroid cycles, HCG can be taken throughout PCT to aid in reestablishing hormonal balance. Overall, HCG improves both men and women’s reproductive health by balancing hormones.
Conclusion
HCG is essential for controlling hormonal balance and reproductive health in general. When administered under the guidance of a medical professional, it is a safe and efficient therapy.
But it can also result in negative side effects including increased body hair growth, greasy skin, acne, or head hair loss.
To guarantee a quick and healthy recovery following steroid cycles, one can control these side effects with the right diet and care.
Hi, I'm Dave Moffat the founder and Chief Editor of steroidsourcetalk.com and certified International Personal Trainer and Certified Nutritionist. My passion has always been bodybuilding but with 15 years' experience in weight loss programs too, it's hard not to mention all that when you're working at your fitness level fullest (I hope). When Im not in the gym or spending time away from my family i often think about what advice would help others achieve theirs goals just like these inspired mine.
