When a couple experiences difficulty conceiving a child, either or both parties may be experiencing fertility problems. Clomiphene citrate, marketed under the brand name Clomid, has been used for treating both male and female infertility.
Clomid increases fertility in females by boosting ovulation, and also raises sperm production in males. If you are living in Rhode Island and having issues conceiving due to a low sperm count, Dr. Edward Jacobson can administer Clomid treatment to help you and your partner become parents.
In men, Clomid increases luteinizing hormone (LH) levels as well as the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), both of which are essential factors in fertility. LH increases testosterone release, while FSH plays a crucial role in the initial stage of sperm production. As these hormone levels rise, so does the level of testosterone and sperm production.
Men must usually receive Clomid treatment for at least three months for a specific number of days, with several days off in between dosages. While sperm counts may begin to increase within a month, potential conception may take three months or more.
For men with low sperm counts, Clomid may allow the production of sufficient sperm for retrieval via testicular sperm extraction. This sperm can then be used for IVF treatments. It is important to keep in mind, however, that Clomid is not always effective in increasing fertility in some men.
Clomid can help men with issues other than fertility. Men diagnosed with hypogonadism—which can result from low testosterone production—may also benefit from Clomid therapy. Symptoms of hypogonadism include erectile dysfunction, breast enlargement, muscle mass loss, and loss of body hair. Low testosterone may cause brain fog, fatigue, no interest in sex, and hot flashes.
Men going through chemotherapy or radiation therapies for cancer are at risk of developing hypogonadism. The same holds true for those with undescended testes, a genetic predisposition to the condition, or preexisting testicle injuries.
For hypogonadism treatment, Clomid is used for several months until users achieve normal testosterone levels. However, some Rhode Island men may need Clomid treatment administered permanently.
While Clomid may cause various side effects in women, contraindications from this drug are rare in men. However, a change in vision is one possible side effect, so anyone who’s vision blurs while taking Clomid should stop taking the drug and notify their doctor immediately.
In a worst-case scenario, vision loss may occur, but long-term problems are unlikely if the patient quickly discontinues use once problems with their vision occur. Most men can take Clomid, but those with a history of cardiovascular disease should discuss their condition with their doctor.
If you would like more information about Clomid treatment for men and your option to become a candidate, call our office today or contact us online to arrange a consultation. Dr. Jacobson has experience with administering Clomid treatment for men in Rhode Island and could answer all of your questions if you provide information about any prior fertility treatments. Clomid may help you avoid surgical treatment for infertility, or it may increase your chances of conceiving after surgery.