Ovulation is a monthly process in a woman’s body. It is when she produces a mature egg. If the ovulation cycle is not proper, it can cause problems in conceiving. It is also known as infertility. There are many types of treatments available that try to treat impotence. One of them is a drug called clomiphene.
Struggling with infertility can throw your world upside down. Most of the women out there grow up with a dream of having their child one day. Thanks to the development of modern science, many treatments for infertility help make that dream a reality.
What is Clomiphene?
Clomiphene is a drug that treats infertility. Make sure to get your doctor’s approval before you try it out. This drug is to be taken orally. The best part is that it does not contain steroids, as many others do. Clomiphene makes the pituitary gland release hormones that are required for the ovulation of the egg.
This is most helpful for women struggling to conceive due to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The doctor may also recommend it for other reasons based on the patient’s condition.
Before You Start Clomiphene
Go through the following list once before you start the medicine. The drug is not to be consumed if you have any of the following conditions or problems.
- If you have an ovarian cyst that is not related to PCOS.
- If you had any kind of liver disease.
- In case you have vaginal bleeding without any explainable reasoning.
- If you are pregnant.
- If you have an uncontrollable or untreatable thyroid or adrenal gland issue.
Consult your doctor if you have any of these issues. Mention other conditions, if you have any, to the doctor. It will help eliminate any risk.
How Should I Take The Drug?
Clomiphene is to be taken as prescribed by the doctor. Based on the feedback, the doctor may change the dose. Before starting the medicine, the physician will write down some tests to make sure you are fit for the treatment.
Clomiphene is usually taken on the fifth day of the period. It is continued for the next five days. Before each cycle, the woman has to undergo a pelvic exam. Please make sure to continue the treatment until the doctor stops the medicine. Do not self-medicate as it could be detrimental to your health.
Usually, clomiphene treatment does not exceed three to six cycles. If you are not able to conceive by then, the doctor may try other treatments or try to find the cause of infertility.
Clomiphene Side Effects?
You must know the side effects of the medicine before you take it. Seek immediate help if you develop an allergic reaction to the medicine. The reaction may show up as hives, you may experience difficulty in breathing, or have swelling in the throat, lips, etc. If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your physician immediately.
- Vomiting or diarrhea.
- Flashes or floaters in the vision.
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic area.
- Vaginal bleeding.
- Increased eye sensitivity to light.
- Double vision.
- Weight gain.
- Swelling or bloated stomach.
Here are some of the milder side effects that one may experience.
- Tenderness or breast pain.
- Spots in bleeding.
- Headache.
- Flushing (Tingling, warmth, redness, etc.)
Is Clomiphene Trustable?
Clomiphene is a trusted synthetic chemical. It has been used to treat irregular or absent menstrual cycles for quite some time now. Its safety, low cost, and effectiveness have made this drug quite popular.
The drug triggers the brain’s pituitary gland to secrete Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LT). This action helps to initiate ovulation. Typically, only one egg ovulates during the menstrual cycle. But the medicine helps to produce two to three eggs, thus encouraging the chances of conception.
Although this medicine is highly trustable, you should keep an eye out for any side effects. This drug has helped many women realize their dreams of motherhood. But if it does not work for you, then there are other treatments that your doctor could try.
Not being able to conceive naturally is a fear many women carry. Infertility is often looked down upon in our society. But it is often out of our control. The primary thing to remember is not to let society’s judgment get to you. Hold your head high and follow the doctor’s instructions. It is often a good idea to get a second opinion if you are not happy with the doctor’s treatment.
Also Read: Cervical Mucus Method To Detect Ovulation