Has your doctor recommended that you take Clomid? Clomid is the most commonly-prescribed fertility drug. Still, as with any medication, it’s important to learn more about Clomid side effects.
Clomid helps women who ovulate irregularly or not at all. Clomid causes the pituitary gland to secrete more FSH, which starts the development of ovarian follicles containing eggs. If Clomid works for you, the eggs are released from the ovary and ovulation has occurred.
What are Clomid side effects?
Despite a few problems, Clomid side effects are well-tolerated by women who take it. Clomid side effects are fairly mild and generally disappear once Clomid is stopped.
With higher doses of this fertility drug, Clomid side effects are more pronounced. About 10 percent of women report Clomid side effects that include:
- hot flashes
- mood swings
- depression
- breast tenderness
- nausea
- headaches
- visual disturbances
These side effects are generally reversible. Still, if you have any of these, you should stop taking this fertility drug and contact your doctor.
More serious Clomid side effects
Some women also report side effects such as ovarian cysts and pelvic discomfort resulting from a hyper stimulation of the ovaries. Warning signs of ovarian hyper stimulation include:
- abdominal pain and distention
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- weight gain
A thinning of the endometrium or a changing of the cervical mucus are possible Clomid side effects. These complications should be taken seriously, as they can have a negative impact on your chances of a successful pregnancy.
Multiple births and Clomid
Another Clomid side effect is an increased chance of multiple births. There is a 10 percent chance of having twins when Clomid is a part of the treatment. There is a less than 1 percent chance of having triplets or higher.
The problem with having multiple births is that it increases your chances of premature labor. Also, premature babies are at a greater risk for health and developmental problems.
Is Clomid right for you?
As you can see, side effects are generally minimal, and your doctor can control most of them. Still, you should weigh the risks versus the benefits before beginning a course of Clomid or any fertility drug.
Regardless of its side effects, it induces ovulation in more than 80 percent of patients who take Clomid. Also, with Clomid about 50 percent of women become pregnant within six cycles.
So, if the baby-boosting benefits of taking Clomid outweigh the reported Clomid side effects, then talk to your doctor. See if Clomid is right for your infertility situation to help you get pregnant.
Sources: Resolve: Fertility Medications American Pregnancy Association: Infertility Medications American Society for Reproductive Medicine: Medications for Inducing Ovulation: A Guide for Patients
