I want to know about clomid?

Question

I am interested in trying clomid because my husband and I have been trying for a little over a year for our second child. I have a doctor appt. soon and was wondering how I should ask my doctor, and what I should expect as far as testing, cost, and effectivness. If anyone can tell me something from personal experience I would appreicate it!

Answer 1

Once your doctor has done some basic tests, then Clomid might be an option for you. The important thing is that your body should be reception (but not TOO receptive) to the medication. You don't want to go and over stimulate your ovaries and get OHSS, but for many people, Clomid is a really good thing. There are some side effects for some women which include headaches, but I've got friend who felt nothing and went to work etc. But first, your doctor will probably do a blood test on CD3 (estradiol and FSH) and maybe also test for progesterone on CD21. That's where you'll start. Best of luck!

Answer 2

I'd second the you don't want it too overstimulating.  My wife ended up with ovarian torsion, when a hyperstimulated and enlarged ovary got too heavy and fell, cutting off it's own blood supply.  Also, Clomid has the potential to lead to multiple births.  Seems like Clomid is the basic square one infertility drug anymore.  My wife was unresponsive to it.  Your cost will be in large part dependent on your insurance coverage.  Keep in mind each blood test or other test will carry a cost (copay, deductible, etc.), as will the prescriptions.  

We ended up all the way down the IVF road, but I know several women who've been responsive to the Clomid and they're parents as a result.

Answer 3

I have just started my first round of Clomid.  If you have been trying for a year with no success that is probably the first thing your doctor will try.  Before I was put on it I had to have a blood test to see if I was ovulating and an hsg test. 7-10 days after the start of your period you go in and they shoot dye up you to make sure everything is open.  Since you have already had one baby, I don't know if they will do this step.  My husband also had to go in for a test, but yet again you may not have to.

Docs will usually start at 50mg and have you take it on CD5-9 or CD3-7.  7 Days after you ovulate you go in for a blood test to see if it was a good ovulation.  If not then they will bump your dosage up for the next month.  Usual practice is that they will only do Clomid for 6 months, or for 3 good months which ever comes first.

My insurance did not cover the Clomid, but it was only $22 so no big deal.  Side effects vary.  Some people say they are REALLY moody, crying alot, sick all the time.  Me, I just took day five and have only had a few minor hot flashes.  Nothing I can't handle.

Best of luck when visiting the doc.  Just let them know you have researched it and think it may be a good thing to try next.

For more info check out www.twoweekwait.com  there is a board called Clomid Chicks and then there are boards for every issue, including success stories.

Good Luck!