hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) works in men by stimulating the testicles to produce more testosterone.
Here's a breakdown of how this process works:
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hCG's Role: hCG mimics the action of luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that signals the testicles to produce testosterone.
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Testosterone Production: By acting like LH, hCG instructs the testicles to increase their production of testosterone.
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Counteracting Testosterone Replacement Therapy Effects: During testosterone replacement therapy, the body's natural testosterone production can decrease. This happens because the hypothalamus reduces its production of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), which then causes the pituitary gland to release less LH. Since hCG mimics LH, it can help maintain testosterone production even during testosterone replacement therapy by directly stimulating the testicles.
| Hormone | Function in Men |
|---|---|
| LH | Signals the testicles to produce testosterone |
| hCG | Mimics LH, instructing the testicles to produce testosterone |
| GnRH | Stimulates the pituitary gland to release LH |
In summary, hCG's primary action in men is to stimulate testosterone production in the testicles, which can be especially useful in situations where natural testosterone production is suppressed, such as during testosterone replacement therapy.
