Can hCG hormone improve embryo implantation rates?

This study looked at whether injecting HCG hormone into the womb before embryo transfer improved pregnancy rates. This study concluded that HCG improved pregnancy rates for women with a history of unsuccessful implantation.

One cause of infertility is poor implantation of an embryo in the uterus. This occurs when the fertilized embryo attaches to the lining of the uterus. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is an infertility treatment in which embryos are implanted directly in the uterus. Some women experience unsuccessful implantation after multiple IVF treatments.

Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG) is a hormone important for pregnancy. It helps make the uterus lining more receptive to implantation (of the embryo). Some studies suggest that injecting HCG into the uterus may improve implantation rates. It is unclear whether HCG can improve pregnancy rates after IVF in women with infertility.

This study analyzed the results of 6 studies. These studies included a total of 1432 patients. All patients had at least 2 cycles of IVF that were not successful (no embryo implantation). 692 patients received HCG. 740 patients did not receive HCG (control group).

All six studies looked at pregnancy rates. Significantly more patients in the HCG group became pregnant (observed on ultrasound) compared to the control group (41.8% vs. 31.2%). 

Three studies looked at live birth rates. These studies included 870 patients. Significantly more patients in the HCG group had a live birth compared to the control group (27.8% vs 18.0%).

This study concluded that HCG improved pregnancy rates for women with a history of unsuccessful implantation after IVF.

The dosage and timing of HGC injection varied between studies. More studies are needed to confirm these results.

Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits of HCG perfusion if you have had multiple unsuccessful IVF treatments.