Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
Pronunciation: H-C-G
Also written as: hCG — Human Chorionic Gonadotropin
A hormone used to trigger final egg maturation before retrieval and as a pregnancy marker.
Full Definition
Human chorionic gonadotropin is a hormone naturally produced during pregnancy that has dual roles in assisted reproductive technology. As a trigger medication, hCG mimics the natural luteinizing hormone surge to induce final oocyte maturation before retrieval, typically administered 34-36 hours before the procedure. As a biomarker, serum hCG levels are measured to confirm pregnancy and monitor early pregnancy progression after embryo transfer. Different preparations include urinary-derived hCG and recombinant hCG, with varying pharmacokinetic properties and dosing requirements.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether referring to hCG as trigger medication or pregnancy test; include timing details.
In Context
- "The hCG trigger was administered at precisely 9 PM for optimal timing." — medication protocol
- "Serum hCG levels were positive 14 days after embryo transfer." — pregnancy test results