Clomid Side Effects

Clomid is used as an infertility medication for women that are trying to conceive a baby, but having no luck.  Clomid is generally well tolerated by women and has mild to moderate side effects when compared to other fertility medications, which is why it is the first drug of choice for infertility.  However, as with any type of medication Clomid side effects after ovulation are something a woman will want to consider and discuss with her physician prior to taking the medication.

The following is a list of Clomid side effects which a woman could experience when taking the drug for infertility:

• Increased risk of twin or multiple pregnancies:  the risk of becoming pregnant with more than one baby is always a risk when taking fertility medications.  A woman will have an increased risk of having twins, triplets, quadruplets and quintuplets. To reduce the chances of becoming pregnant with multiples a doctor should always begin by prescribing the lowest dose possible.

• Bloating and abdominal discomfort:  these are very common side effects of Clomid and can be experienced by 5% of women taking the drug.  The bloating can be alleviated by wearing lose clothing and should subside once treatment is completed.  Any severe discomfort is something that a woman should discuss with her physician to determine the best course of action.

• Hot Flashes:  approximately 10% of women taking the drug will experience this side effect.  When having a hot flash it is normal for a woman to feel flushed and warm, to experience facial flushing, sweating and a rapid heartbeat.  Hot flashes can also produce night sweats and while uncomfortable, are not dangerous.

• Mood swings:  while taking Clomid a woman can experience mood swings, but it is not that common and less than 1% of females reported feeling this effect. The mood swings can be mild and may include emotional sensitivity, crying, depression and anxiety. The best way to treat mood swings is through good self-care and a healthy diet during treatment.

• Weight gain:  not as common as bloating, but it is not unheard of for a woman to gain weight when taking any type of fertility medication.  Once treatment has subsided, it is normal for a woman to go back to her regular weight.

• Nausea and Dizziness:  some women experience nausea and dizziness when taking Clomid, to avoid these effects it is recommended taking the medication in the evening.  If nausea is intense and the woman is unable to keep down fluids or food, it is something that needs to be reported to a doctor in order to avoid any complications.

• Vaginal dryness or thickening of cervical mucus:  due to hormonal changes.

• Breast tenderness:  also attributed to hormonal changes from the Clomid.

• Abnormal menstrual bleeding:  spotting between periods is normal and may subside, but any heavy bleeding should be reported to a physician.

• Blurry vision: not dangerous and usually temporary and goes away once a woman stops taking the drug.

Clomid side effects after ovulation are normal and usually become lessened with time, but anything problematic or questionable does need to be reported to a medical professional in order to avoid anything serious happening.  When trying to conceive and adding a drug like Clomid to an infertility regimen, a woman needs to be aware of the side effects and discuss any possible questions or concerns with her medical professional.