Many couples are started on fertility medicines such as clomiphene citrate or on intrauterine insemination (IUI) after only basic tests. These treatments do help certain people, but research shows they are not equally effective for everyone, and understanding why can save time, money and emotional strain.
When they work well
Clomiphene (sold as Clomid or Serophene) stimulates ovulation. It is effective in women who do not ovulate regularly, for example because of PCOS.
When the benefit is limited
Large trials in couples with unexplained infertility, where ovulation is already normal, found that clomiphene and IUI added little over a period of simply trying naturally with good timing. In such couples, the medicine is addressing a problem that may not be present.
Possible downsides
- Multiple pregnancy, which carries higher risks for mother and babies
- Side effects such as hot flushes, mood changes, headaches and a thinner womb lining
- With stronger injectable drugs, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
- Months spent on a treatment that does not address the actual cause
The importance of finding the cause
Before starting treatment, it helps to confirm ovulation, check the tubes and womb, test the thyroid and prolactin, and carry out a semen analysis for the male partner. Homeopathic treatment aims to look at the individual as a whole and can be considered alongside this evaluation. Please do not stop or change prescribed medicines without discussing it with your fertility doctor.
Learn more
To discuss your situation with a Welling Homeopathy doctor, contact a clinic or call +91 80 80 850 950 for a consultation in person or online.
Disclaimer: this page is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary from person to person.
