Frequently asked fertility questions

WHAT CYCLE DAY WILL I START MY IVF CYCLE?

You will normally start 'down regulating' on cycle day 21 depending on the length of your cycle.

Some clinics may give you the option to start on cycle day 2. Short protocols using the new drugs called GnRH antagonists do not require a prolonged period of down regulation first and this allows the stimulation to start on CD2 and egg collection will occur at the same time as natural ovulation.

WHAT IS CLOMID?

Clomid or Clomiphene Citrate is often prescribed to women who are having problems ovulating. It is not normally prescribed for more than 6 months, as there is a possible increased risk of ovarian cancer with prolonged use. This may be because women who do not ovulate, and do not conceive are at a higher risk of ovarian cancer rather than due to the drug.

Clomid is normally taken for five days, starting within 5 days of the onset of your period, and preferably on the 2nd day of menstruation. It can be started at any time if your menstrual cycles have ceased, however. The lowest dose is normally 50 mg a day. This can be increased to 100mg daily for 5 days if your body does not respond appropriately.

Clomid stimulates your hormone system into helping an egg grow. It tricks your body into producing more follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) due to its anti-oestrogen action. At high doses, the anti-oestrogenic effects may affect cervical mucus (making it thicker and stickier) or the endometrium (making it thinner and less receptive).

Some women experience side effects such as breast tenderness, hot flushes, minor abdominal discomfort and moodiness. If you have very bad nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, pain or problems with your sight, you should see your GP. There is a slightly increased risk of multiple pregnancies when on Clomid (10 percent).

You will normally be offered a Cycle Day 21 blood test, to check that ovulation has occurred. Some clinics will offer you an ultrasound scan a few days after you have finished the treatment to see how your follicles are developing.