Clomiphene (clomiphene citrate), commonly known under the brand names Clostilbegit and Clomid – is a drug that is prescribed for ovulation and fertility disorders. This pharmacological agent can be used by women who do not ovulate, as well as those who have a lack of luteal phase. LH (luteinizing) and FSH (follicle-stimulating) are hormones that control the ovulation process. Various clinical and scientific studies have provided statistics that consumption of clomiphene stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more of these all-important hormones to normalize ovulation.
In modern times, clomiphene, discovered back in 1956, and ovulation continue to be closely related, as the drug has proven effective for ovarian stimulation and is therefore widely used for this purpose. Other drugs that also stimulate the process of egg release from the follicle are bromocriptine and metformin.
How does clomiphene work?
the body’s cells exchange information through substances such as hormones and neurotransmitters (neurotransmitters). they come into contact with the receptors of various tissues to cause a chemical reaction.
The mode of action and mechanism of the drug are quite similar to the female sex hormone-estrogen. Similarly, clomiphene comes into contact with a receptor present in the hypothalamus (an endocrine gland located in the brain). the drug blocks estrogen from showing its biological properties, while the body believes that this hormone is not enough. this automatically causes the body to produce more gnrh (gonadoliberin), which in turn causes the release of lh and fsh. In fact, FSH helps in the maturation process of follicles (or potential eggs) and therefore produces more estrogen. If clostilbegyt operates so that ovulation occurs more frequently.
How effective is it?
According to statistics, 70% of women report positive results within 6 months after the start of using the product, as evidenced by the solution of issues with ovulation. In addition, about 40% of women are reported to be able to conceive a child after starting treatment. There are several other factors that can affect the chances of getting pregnant, such as a woman’s age and weight. In addition, the period of the menstrual cycle, the frequency of sexual intercourse and male factors such as mobility, speed, shape and number of sperm can also influence the ability to get pregnant. The doctor may increase the dose over time to increase the chances of conceiving a child, as a low dose may not be sufficient for some patients.
Clomiphene and ovulation: what are the side effects?
In addition to the positive effect of clomiphene, as with many other drugs, there may be some side effects:
- Breast sensitivity;
- Significant weight gain;
- Blurred and blurred vision;
- Changes in normal sleep quality and rhythm;
- Abdominal pain;
- Mood swings;
- Severe bleeding during menstruation;
- Spotting;
- Sensations of a rush of heat;
- Nausea;
Another side effect of clomiphene is dryness of the cervical mucosa, which can affect the quality of sexual intercourse; however, this defect can be compensated by the use of vaginal lubrication.
As a side effect, OHSS (ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome) may occur. This condition is characterized by a reversible increase (edema) of the ovaries due to an active reaction of the body to hormones and is quite common (> 10% of women). OHSS should be suspected if excessive flatulence or bloating occurs. This can be a serious problem, but usually ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome that occurs due to the use of clostylbegit is a mild condition that goes away on its own. The severity of OHSS may increase if you take HCG (another fertility medication).
Clomiphene can lead to multiple ovulation, hence increasing the likelihood of twins (10% of births instead of – 1% without it) and triplets.
Some studies have shown that clomiphene, when used for more than a year, can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Subsequent studies have not confirmed these findings, so we can not speak confidently about this.
According to statistics, the incidence of fetal diseases with the use of clomiphene does not exceed the level that is observed in conception without it. There are no data indicating a higher number of congenital abnormalities or spontaneous abortions after using this drug. although there are also studies that show that the number of congenital heart abnormalities is significantly higher with its use than with its counterpart for ovarian stimulation – letrozole.
Sexual acts when taking clomiphene
The period and frequency of sexual acts when using the drug is not much different from trying to get pregnant without any medication. The ideal time is considered to be two days before and after ovulation, so that the chances of pregnancy increase. The cycles of egg release from the ovary can vary, as in some women they are longer, while in others they are shorter. The ovulation period may even differ from cycle to cycle in the same woman. You can be disappointed if you get too hung up on conception, so it’s better to just relax and try to implement interesting ideas in the bedroom.