Q&A: What is Clomid?

Clomid (clomiphene citrate) is a medication used to help regulate ovulation in women who have had difficulty conceiving naturally. It helps to stimulate the production of the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that help women ovulate each month.

Clomid can be taken if:

• Your estrogen and pituitary functioning are normal
• Your partner is fertile
• You are trying to increase ovulation for eggs to be used for in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Depending on what your doctor decides, other medications may be used in conjunction with Clomid.

How Do I Take Clomid?
Clomid is taken orally in pill form. The dosage will be determined by your doctor and may sometimes be adjusted depending on your response to the medication. You will start taking Clomid three to seven days after the first day of your cycle, using the first day of your period as day one. Your doctor may monitor you with an ultrasound and/or blood work, or may just give you some time to become pregnant and have you follow up.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) practice bulletin, most women using Clomid will become pregnant within three to six cycles.

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications. Your doctor should review them with you to prevent medication interaction.

Are There Side Effects?
Here are the side effects most commonly reported with Clomid use:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Stomach upset
• Abdominal bloating
• Breast tenderness