Women with irregular menstrual cycles often have conceiving. Treatment with Clomiphene can assist in such cases by promoting the maturation of ovarian follicles and ovulation. Learn here what Clomiphene is, how it reacts in the female body, and what a treatment entails.
Understanding the female reproductive system
To grasp the significance of Clomiphene, it's important to understand the intricate interplay within the female reproductive system. The menstrual cycle is regulated by hormones such as Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). FSH stimulates the maturation of ovarian follicles, while LH triggers ovulation when the follicles are matured.
What is Clomiphene and how does it work?
Clomiphene is a medication that deceives the female body into believing there is insufficient estrogen, thereby prompting the pituitary gland in the brain to produce more FSH and LH. This leads to increased follicle maturation, influences ovulation, and consequently enhances the chances of pregnancy.
Clomiphene therapy
Clomiphene is administered in tablet form. Treatment with Clomiphene requires individualized dosing and monitoring by a physician. Typically, treatment starts with a dosage of 50mg of Clomiphene. The treatment begins on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle. Clomiphene is taken at the prescribed dosage for three to five consecutive days thereafter. This is intended to induce ovulation approximately one week later. Ultrasound examinations are often conducted to monitor follicle development and measure LH levels in the blood. This allows for an approximate prediction of ovulation timing. Ovulation should be confirmed again using an ovulation test. Subsequently, the optimal timing for intercourse to maximize conception chances (often termed "timed intercourse") or for insemination can be determined.
Success rates and potential risks
Clomiphene therapies can significantly increase the chances of pregnancy, especially in women with ovulatory disorders. On average, after six cycles, 64 percent of all ovulating women become pregnant. Approximately 25% of all patients suffer from Clomiphene resistance, where ovulation fails to occur. In most cases, treatment is well-tolerated, but in rare instances, side effects such as mood swings, hot flashes, and nausea may occur. The miscarriage rate is slightly elevated under Clomiphene (20%), and multiple pregnancies are also more common. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor based on your personal medical history.
A promising option to increase pregnancy chances
Clomiphene offers women with irregular cycles a promising option to enhance their chances of pregnancy. The treatment requires personalized care and monitoring to achieve optimal results.
