Clomid

Clomid is an orally taken medication that is most commonly used for the purpose of stimulating the process of ovulation. Its effectiveness is explained by the fact that it disables estrogen-based receptors in the hypothalamus being a valuable part of the human body accountable for the regulation of hormones in females. When the receptors are disabled, the hypothalamus is encouraged to unleash the FSH as a hormone that stimulates follicles in the female body coupled with luteinizing hormone (LH). The above-mentioned types of hormones are responsible for the natural process of ovulation and stimulate the normalization of a female cycle. As a general recommendation, Clomid is prescribed to those women who plan to get pregnant, but have problems with ovulation or any related conditions, as will be discussed further.

When Is Clomid Prescribed?

Clomid is especially effective for those women who are making attempts to get pregnant but experience some particular difficulties or impairments. Among others, women sometimes suffer from irregular ovulation cycles, in which case it is advisable to take Clomid. This may happen when women are not confident when the process of ovulation takes place due to the irregularity of their cycles. As a result, such women face difficulty getting pregnant because they cannot choose the proper timing for the intercourse with their partners. Clomid, in this case, is supposed to produce the proper ovulatory reaction in women in order to ensure that she has greater chances of getting pregnant.

One more instance when Clomid is prescribed is related to fertility problems in males. In case there are some problems with the quality of semen in males, the probability of pregnancy is somewhat decreased. As such, male patients in these cases could be prescribed to take Clomid as a way of increasing the probability of their partners to get pregnant. Clomid is effectively used for the improvement of the relevant timing of inseminations corresponding to the female cycle.

There are also cases when infertility or an inability to get pregnant occurs without any well-grounded reasons. In case such unexplainable problems take place, Clomid can produce a desirable effect by increasing the chances of getting pregnant in young couples who have no particular health problems in their medical record. In case both partners have no abnormalities in fertility, but still have difficulty getting pregnant, it would be reasonable to prescribe Clomid as a way to tackle this problem in a timely manner and with much effectiveness.

How to Use Clomid?

Before initiating the process of treatment with Clomid, it is necessary to identify the proper timing for the intake of this medication in accordance with your cycle. As a rule, female patients are advised to take one or up to three tablets a day for a period of five days at the beginning of the cycle (for instance, days 3-7 or days 4-8). During this period of time, certain women might experience hot flashes, decreased mood or some changes in sleeping habits. However, such instances are quite rare, and the majority of female patients do not experience any abnormal symptoms or signs at all. The process of ovulation will generally take place after seven or eight days from the date of treatment completion using this drug. Just because the ovaries are going to be stimulated in this period of time, women may notice that they are feeling certain discomfort during the intercourse with their partners.

The verification of the timing for ovulation could be performed using several methods. It is advisable to consult your doctor in order to identify the best possible way of checking ovulation timing. The potential methods to be used could include the following:

  • Determination of basal body temperature;
  • Ultrasound check-up;
  • Blood exams;
  • LH kit examinations, etc.

During your subsequent visit to the doctor, you will be given certain recommendations as for when your next ovulation is to be anticipated as well as what the best timing for the intercourse is and when to attend the next check-up in order to validate the ovulation.

Precautions: Potential Side Effects and Allergic Reactions

First and foremost, it is not advisable to use Clomid if you suffer from liver-related illnesses or have unusual vaginal bleeding as well as in the event of pregnancy. Clomid can penetrate the milk of a woman and cause damage to the baby. In case you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advisable to avoid using Clomid for a designated period of time. Besides, before taking this medication, it is necessary to check whether you have any allergic reactions to the components of the drug. In case you have a history of current or past liver-related illnesses, it is recommended not to take Clomid for the time period. The same refers to such conditions as an unregulated problem with thyroid glands. Talk to your physician in case you have any concerns or worries about future treatment with Clomid in order to avoid possible complications with your present condition.

The side effects during Clomid treatment may include the following conditions and symptoms:

  • Allergic reactions (problems with normal breathing, swelling of the face, tongue, throat or lips, etc.);
  • Stomach ache, vomiting, upset stomach or feeling sick;
  • Uncontrollable weight gain, particularly in the midsection of your body;
  • Problems with urinary tract;
  • Increased heartbeat;
  • A feeling of suffocation or other difficulties breathing, etc.

In case you observe one or several of the above-listed conditions, it is advisable to stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention or consult your physician for further directions and instructions. Unless told otherwise, the treatment with Clomid should be stopped or postponed until all unwanted reactions go away. If the symptoms do not alleviate for a long period of time, it can be suggested that you are allergic to some of the components of this drug and, therefore, the future treatment with this medication is inadvisable.