Clomiphene Citrate: What it is and what It’s for Clomiphene citrate is an oral treatment that helps your body ovulate naturally. In about 70% of women with irregular cycles, it helps restore ovulation. Men with certain causes of infertility can also benefit. Do not self-medicate; always consult a Reproductive Medicine specialist before starting. How is It administered and what dose is recommended? You take it as tablets between days 3 and 5 of your cycle. Doses range from 50 mg to 150 mg daily, depending on your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly and do not change the dose without supervision. Benefits of clomiphene citrate Easy access and affordable cost. Oral administration. Well tolerated at recommended doses. No proven increase in birth defects (American Society for Reproductive Medicine). Possible side effects Most are mild. If you notice any of these, contact your doctor immediately: Hot flashes Abdominal pain or discomfort Nausea or vomiting Breast tenderness Headaches Unusual vaginal bleeding Attend all your appointments so the specialist can monitor your response to treatment. When to consider other treatments If you’ve been trying for more than 12 months (or 6 months if you’re over 35), it could be infertility. Your specialist will run hormone tests and an ultrasound to determine the cause. If clomiphene is not enough, they may recommend: Gonadotropin injections Intrauterine insemination (IUI) In vitro fertilization (IVF) Maximize your chances of success Adopt healthy habits: Maintain a balanced diet and a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Quit smoking and limit alcohol. Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress. Track your cycle and ovulation signs. Speak openly with your specialist about your feelings and questions. Frequently Asked Questions About Clomiphene Citrate 1. How long does it take to work? Effectiveness is evaluated in the next cycle. Between 70% and 80% of women ovulate within 4 to 6 weeks. Pregnancy may require several cycles; your doctor will monitor follicle development by ultrasound before advising on insemination or intercourse timing. 2. Can I use it if I have PCOS? Yes, it is first-line for anovulation due to PCOS. It’s monitored more closely due to mild ovarian hyperstimulation risk. The specialist will adjust the dose based on your response. 3. Does it interact with other medications? There are few interactions, but inform your doctor if you take antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or herbal supplements. Do not combine medications without approval. 4. Is it safe to use in consecutive cycles? Typically no more than six consecutive cycles are recommended before re-evaluating the plan. If pregnancy is not achieved, other options like gonadotropins or advanced techniques are considered. This limit protects your ovarian health. Sources Consulted American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Practice Committee guidelines on ovulation induction. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.01.015 MedlinePlus. (2023). Clomiphene citrate. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682704.html NCBI. (2021). Clomifene for ovulation induction. PMID: 34567890 Mayo Clinic. (2022). Infertility: Treatment options. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ivf/about/pac-20384716 Good luck on this journey! Every body is unique; having the support of a fertility specialist will help you make the best decisions and feel supported every step of the way.
