Main content

    HealthWise KnowledgeBase

    Clomiphene for Infertility

    Clomiphene for Infertility



    How Well It Works

    Unexplained infertility. There is limited evidence that clomiphene makes pregnancy more likely for couples with unexplained infertility.Reference 2 Clomiphene may be most effective when it is used to generate multiple eggs before an insemination procedure.

    Infrequent or no ovulation. Of women whose infertility is caused only by absent or infrequent ovulation, with clomiphene treatment approximately 80 out of 100 women will ovulate. And within 9 cycles of treatment, 70 to 75 out of 100 will become pregnant. Experts used to think miscarriage rates were slightly higher in women who became pregnant using clomiphene. But recent studies have not shown this to be true.Reference 3

    Polycystic ovary syndrome. Clomiphene alone may not be an effective treatment for most women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and severe Reference insulin resistance Opens New Window, which is closely linked to obesity. Women with PCOS who are overweight often begin ovulating when they reduce their body mass index (BMI) with diet and exercise.



    This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.