Clomiphene: What It Is, How It Works, and What You Need to Know

When women have trouble ovulating, clomiphene, a selective estrogen receptor modulator used to stimulate ovulation in women with infertility. Also known as Clomid, it's one of the most prescribed fertility medications worldwide. Unlike hormones that directly trigger egg release, clomiphene works by tricking the brain into thinking estrogen levels are low. This prompts the pituitary gland to pump out more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)—the exact signals your body needs to mature and release an egg.

It’s not for everyone. Clomiphene works best in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or irregular cycles, but it won’t help if the issue is blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, or unexplained infertility without ovulation problems. Doctors usually start with a 50mg daily dose for five days, right after your period ends. If that doesn’t work, the dose might go up—though higher doses don’t always mean better results and can thin the uterine lining, making it harder for an embryo to stick.

Many people wonder how it compares to other options. letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor sometimes used off-label for ovulation induction is now often preferred over clomiphene in women with PCOS because studies show higher live birth rates and fewer side effects. Then there’s gonadotropins, injectable fertility drugs that directly stimulate the ovaries—they work faster and stronger but cost more and carry a higher risk of multiples or ovarian hyperstimulation. Clomiphene stays popular because it’s oral, affordable, and has decades of safety data behind it.

Side effects? They’re usually mild: hot flashes, mood swings, bloating, or headaches. A small number of women report blurred vision—stop the pill and call your doctor if that happens. Multiple pregnancies are a real concern; about 1 in 10 pregnancies with clomiphene result in twins, and triplets are rare but possible. It’s not meant for long-term use—most doctors limit it to six cycles because if you haven’t gotten pregnant by then, something else is likely going on.

What you won’t find in most doctor’s offices is how often clomiphene is used outside the U.S. In Mexico and other countries, it’s commonly available without a prescription in pharmacies—though that doesn’t mean it’s safe to take without monitoring. Blood tests and ultrasounds during treatment help track egg development and reduce risks. Skipping those checks can lead to overstimulation or missed opportunities.

The posts below cover real cases and comparisons: how clomiphene stacks up against other fertility drugs, what to expect during treatment, why some women respond and others don’t, and how lifestyle, timing, and even stress play a role. You’ll also find advice on managing side effects, understanding ovulation tests, and when to move on to the next step. Whether you’re just starting out or have been through a few cycles already, this collection gives you the facts—not the fluff.