Clomiphene Citrate

Clomiphene citrate is a medication used to induce ovulation in women with irregular menstrual cycles or who are not ovulating regularly. It works by stimulating the pituitary gland to secrete more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, leading to ovulation.

In the Aashakiran IVF protocol, clomiphene is often used in conjunction with Provera to initiate menstruation and ovulation in women who have no menstrual cycle. The treatment begins with a 5-7 day course of Provera, followed by a course of clomiphene citrate taken orally for 5 days. On day 11 or 12 of the menstrual cycle, ultrasound monitoring is conducted to determine if an ovarian follicle or follicles have developed. Patients are also asked to use an ovulation predictor kit to test their urine for a surge in LH indicating that eggs have matured and ovulation is imminent. If no LH surge is detected, ovulation may be triggered with an injection of hCG (Ovidrel), which causes the release of mature eggs from the follicles.

Natural intercourse or insemination is timed to ovulation. If ovulation has been assisted by an hCG injection, a form of the hormone progesterone is given via vaginal tablets or gel to support the endometrial lining and prepare it for the fertilized egg. Two weeks after ovulation, patients are asked to take a home pregnancy test. If the test is positive, a blood test will be performed to confirm the results.

Overall, clomiphene citrate is a safe and effective medication for inducing ovulation in women with irregular menstrual cycles. It is often used in conjunction with other fertility treatments, such as IVF, to increase the chances of pregnancy.