Clomid (clomiphene) — what it does and who it's for
Clomid (generic name clomiphene) is one of the most commonly used drugs to help women who aren’t ovulating regularly. It tricks the body into releasing hormones that kick-start ovulation. People often use it for timed intercourse, intrauterine insemination (IUI) or as a first-line step before more advanced fertility treatments.
How Clomid is usually used
The typical starting plan is 50 mg once daily for five days, commonly beginning on day 3, 4 or 5 of your menstrual cycle. If ovulation doesn’t happen, doctors may increase the dose to 100 mg or try a second cycle. Ovulation commonly occurs 5–12 days after the last pill, so couples time intercourse or IUI around that window. Clinics often monitor with ovulation predictor kits, blood progesterone checks, or ultrasound to confirm follicle growth.
Clomid can also be prescribed for men with low testosterone linked to certain hormone patterns. In men it may improve sperm counts and boost natural testosterone production, but dosing and monitoring differ so follow a specialist’s plan.
Side effects, risks, and what to watch for
Most people tolerate Clomid well, but common side effects include hot flashes, mood swings, breast tenderness, and bloating. A key risk is multiple pregnancy — twins are more likely after Clomid than without treatment. Rare but serious issues include visual disturbances (blurry vision, flashes), severe pelvic pain, or signs of ovarian hyperstimulation. If you notice any visual changes or intense abdominal pain, stop the drug and contact your doctor right away.
Clomid interacts with some medications and isn’t suitable for everyone. Avoid use if you have liver disease, uncontrolled thyroid or adrenal problems, or certain ovarian cysts. Always share a full medical history with your prescriber and mention any hormonal tests you’ve had.
How to make treatment safer and more effective: get a baseline fertility workup first (ovarian reserve tests, partner semen analysis), use monitored cycles when possible, and limit cycles of Clomid to the number your clinic recommends — prolonged use without success usually prompts alternative approaches. Lifestyle factors matter too: quit smoking, keep a healthy BMI, and manage stress where you can.
Thinking of buying Clomid online? Only use a reputable pharmacy that requires a prescription and lists clear contact and privacy information. Counterfeit or improperly stored meds can be ineffective or unsafe. If cost or access is a problem, talk to your clinic about generics or patient support programs.
Want specific dosing or cycle advice? Talk directly with your fertility doctor or pharmacist — they can tailor a plan, explain monitoring, and help you weigh options like letrozole, gonadotropins, or assisted reproductive technologies if Clomid doesn’t work.