What is an HCG injection? What is the use of HCG injection during pregnancy? What are the disadvantages of HCG? – If these are some of the questions plaguing your mind, you have come to the right place. We have all the details about HCG injections, read on!
What is HCG?
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin or HCG is a hormone produces by the placenta when the fertilised egg attaches itself to the uterine wall. HCG is popularly known as the ‘Pregnancy hormone’. The levels of HCG in a woman’s blood or urine is used to detect pregnancy.
HCG injections during pregnancy
It is not common for a pregnant woman to be prescribed HCG injections unless she really needs it. A pregnant woman’s body requires HCG in high levels to help maintain and support the pregnancy. HCG injections are prescribed to women who have low levels of HCG in order to support the pregnancy. This can help avoid miscarriages in women with recurrent pregnancy loss where the embryo fails to attach itself to the uterine wall. HCG injections are also used before pregnancy as a part of fertility treatment.
Side effects of HCG Injection during pregnancy
Just like any other medication, HCG injections have their own share of side effects. Here are some of the allergic side effects of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin injections:
- Rashes
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
- Weight gain
- Headache
- Swelling in the face
- Tingling sensation in the arms or legs
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome or OHS
This is another side effect of HCG injection that can turn out to be quite deadly if not treated in time. This condition usually occurs after the first treatment cycle and has to be reported immediately as it can be life-threatening. If you notice the following symptoms after your first round of HCG treatment, report to a doctor immediately:
- Swelling in hands and legs
- Abdominal pain
- Pelvic pain
- Diarrohea
- Breathlessness
- Vomiting or nausea
- Urinating less than usual
Things to keep in mind before using HCG injections
HCG shots can have an adverse reaction if it’s combined with other medication or conditions. You might need an alteration in the dose of HCG shot in the following cases:
- If you have tumours in the breast, ovary, or uterus
- If you experience vaginal bleeding without cause
- In case you are suffering from kidney diseases or heart diseases
- If you have a history of epilepsy, asthma, or migraines
- If you have a thyroid condition
HCG is supposed to be only to help you become pregnant or support an ongoing pregnancy. Ensure that you use it as prescribed by your doctor as it can have adverse effects if not used the right way.
**All the information provided is only for informational purposes and should not be considered as medical or professional advice. Should you have any concerns or questions, please consult a doctor before starting any sort of medication.
