In This Article
The HCG injection is the most time-sensitive medication in your IVF journey at Chennai. If you have not already heard about HCG injection, more commonly known as a 'trigger shot', then do not worry; you have come to the right place to gain some basic understanding.
This injection is one of the most crucial steps while undergoing an IVF treatment. Fortunately, Dr. Anjana's precise protocol at Unittas Hospital has helped numerous couples achieve up to 95% egg retrieval success rates. Keep reading to know more about HCG injections, their process, the types of injections, the timeline, and more to help you make an informed choice with us!
However, if you are new to the fertility treatments, make sure to explore our IVF injections guide to help you get started with an overview of all the injections used during an IVF treatment.
What is HCG Injection?
HCG or the Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, is a natural hormone that is produced by the developing placenta during pregnancy. HCG injection, also commonly called a "trigger shot," is commonly used in IVF treatments, as it mimics the natural process of the LH or Luteinizing Hormone surge, which is essential for the final egg maturation and ovulation process.
Ensuring that the trigger shot IVF timing is crucially met, the HCG injection helps the eggs mature fully to allow them to be retrieved at the right time. This injection is one of the most important medications in the IVF treatment, as accurate timing directly impacts fertilization, implantation and pregnancy success.
Types of HCG Injections for Pregnancy
There are two main types of HCG injections to get pregnant that are commonly used in IVF treatments:
💉 Recombinant HCG (Ovidrel)
- Dosage: 250 mcg subcutaneous
- Cost: ₹3,500-4,000
- Advantages: No contamination risk, precise dosing
💊 Urinary HCG (Pregnyl, HuCOG)
- Dosage: 5,000-10,000 IU intramuscular
- Cost: ₹800-1,500
- Advantages: Cost-effective, widely available
The Critical 36-Hour Timeline for HCG Injections
Timing is everything with the HCG injection in IVF.
⏰ Example Timeline
For example:
- Day 0, 10:00 PM: HCG injection administered
- Day 2, 10:00 AM: Egg retrieval procedure
Why timing matters:
- Too early = Immature eggs (poor fertilization)
- Too late = Ovulation before retrieval (cycle cancellation)
- Perfect window = 34-37 hours
Uses of HCG Injection
HCG Injection for Pregnancy
- Triggers ovulation among women who cannot ovulate naturally
- Helps in final maturation of eggs before retrieval for IVF
- Improves chances of fertilization
- Sometimes also used in Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) cycles
HCG Injections for Men
- Used to treat male infertility
- Helps produce more testosterone by stimulating the testes
- Helps improve sperm count and production
Dr. Anjana's HCG Injection Dosage Protocols at Unittas Hospital
| Patient Type | HCG Dose | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Normal responder | 10,000 IU | 85% |
| Poor responder | 10,000 IU | 75% |
| PCOS/High responder | 5,000 IU | 90% |
| Dual trigger | 5,000 IU + GnRH | 92% |
How to Take the HCG Injections
📋 Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix powder with diluent (1-2 ml)
- Swirl gently until dissolved
- Draw the prescribed amount
- Inject at the exact scheduled time
- Confirm with the clinic immediately
HCG Injection Side Effects Females
Most women tolerate the HCG injection safely, but like any medications, there can be some mild side effects to make note of to avoid any panic and misinformation:
- Mild pain, redness, or swelling at HCG injection site
- Temporary mood changes, headaches, fatigue
- Rare: allergic reaction, nausea, dizziness
IVF-Specific HCG Injection Side Effects
- Bloating or abdominal discomfort
- Risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) in women with PCOS
- Hormonal imbalance sensations like mood swings, breast tenderness, mild cramps, etc.
🏥 Ready for Your HCG Injection?
HCG injection is the final push for most women that ensures that their eggs are ready for retrieval. With the right expertise, dosage and timing, increase your chances of success of IVF treatment at Unittas Hospital. If you're feeling anxious about timing or side effects, you do not have to go through this alone.
Book Consultation with Dr. AnjanaFAQs About HCG Injection
Q1: What if I miss the timing?
+Contact Dr. Anjana immediately. 1-2 hour delays may be manageable, but timing is critical for egg retrieval success. The clinic will advise whether to proceed or adjust the retrieval timing.
Q2: Can I self-administer?
+Yes, with proper training from our nursing team. We provide comprehensive instructions and practice sessions to ensure you're comfortable with the injection technique.
Q3: Why is a dual trigger used?
+It is often recommended for women with PCOS or those who had poor egg maturation in previous IVF cycles. The dual trigger combines HCG with GnRH agonist for optimal results.
Q4: Is HCG injection painful?
+Minimal discomfort (2-3/10 on the pain scale). Most patients describe it as a quick pinch. The subcutaneous injections (Ovidrel) are typically less painful than intramuscular ones.
Q5: How do I know it worked?
+Ultrasound shows collapsed follicles; progesterone rises. Your doctor will confirm successful triggering through blood tests and ultrasound before egg retrieval.
Q6: Can men use HCG injections?
+Yes. HCG injections for men are sometimes prescribed for low testosterone or to improve sperm count, though this is different from IVF use. Men typically receive different dosing schedules.
Master Your HCG Injection Timing
Book a consultation with Dr. Anjana at Unittas Hospital, Chennai and take the next step towards your dream of parenthood with confidence.