What is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG)?

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is one of the most important medications in an IVF treatment cycle. It tells your body it’s time to release a mature egg, and without it, most IVF cycles simply wouldn’t work.

What Does HCG Do in the Body?

HCG is a hormone your body makes naturally during early pregnancy. When a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall, the placenta starts producing it right away. In an IVF cycle, doctors use a synthetic version of HCG to mimic that signal and trigger ovulation on a precise schedule.

It’s a glycoprotein — meaning it’s made of proteins and sugars — and it works by acting on the same receptors as LH (luteinizing hormone), the hormone that normally triggers egg release.

Why Is HCG Called the “Trigger Shot”?

HCG causes ovulation to begin roughly 36 hours after injection, so doctors can time egg retrieval down to the hour. That precision matters a lot in IVF. The eggs need to be collected right before they release naturally, so the timing has to be exact.

You’ll often hear patients refer to this as the IVF trigger shot. It’s usually one of the last injections in the stimulation phase, right before egg retrieval.

How Does HCG Help During IVF?

During IVF, other medications like FSH help grow multiple follicles in the ovaries. HCG is what finishes the job — it causes those follicles to mature fully so the eggs inside are ready for fertilization in the lab. Without this final step, the eggs may not be developmentally ready.

It’s also used in IUI (intrauterine insemination) cycles, where timing ovulation correctly is equally important. Learn more about how IVF and IUI differ if you’re still comparing options.

Can HCG Help Men Too?

HCG isn’t just for women. It also helps men who have low testosterone and low sperm counts, especially those with a condition called hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH). In HH, the body doesn’t produce enough hormones to stimulate the testes properly.

HCG mimics LH in men, which signals the testes to produce testosterone. Since testosterone is needed to make sperm, HCG injections can boost sperm production. Studies show it helps around 25% of men with HH improve their sperm levels enough to support conception.

What HCG Medications Are Available at Fast IVF?

Fast IVF carries Choriomon 5000 IU, a European-brand HCG medication made by IBSA. It’s the same active ingredient as US brands like Novarel and Pregnyl. Many patients order it through Fast IVF because the price is significantly lower than US retail, and it ships in temperature-controlled packaging.

You can browse all HCG products available at Fast IVF to compare dosages and options. A prescription is required to order.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) used for in IVF?

HCG is used as the trigger shot in IVF cycles. It causes eggs to fully mature inside the follicles and triggers ovulation about 36 hours after injection, allowing doctors to time egg retrieval precisely.

Is HCG safe to use during an IVF cycle?

Yes, HCG is one of the most commonly used IVF medications and has been part of IVF protocols for decades. Your doctor will determine the correct dose based on your individual cycle and follicle response.

How is HCG different from other IVF medications?

Most IVF medications stimulate follicle growth over several days. HCG is given once, at a very specific time, to finalize egg maturation and trigger ovulation. It works at the end of the stimulation phase, not throughout it. For a full overview, check out our IVF medications guide.

What is Choriomon and is it the same as Novarel or Pregnyl?

Choriomon is the European brand name for HCG. It contains the same active ingredient as Novarel and Pregnyl sold in the US. Many patients choose Choriomon through Fast IVF because its significantly cheaper, with the same quality and European manufacturing standards.

Can I order HCG medications online through Fast IVF?

Yes. Fast IVF is a leading international IVF medication provider that ships European-brand HCG medications directly to patients. You’ll need a valid prescription from your doctor. Request a free quote to get started.

HCG is a small injection with a big job — it’s the signal your body needs to complete the cycle. If you’re looking for affordable HCG medications sourced from licensed European manufacturers, Fast IVF has you covered. Get a free quote today and see how much you can save.