Trying to get pregnant can try your patience. Midwest Reproductive Center sometimes uncovers a “quick fix” for barriers to fertility, but most often treatment takes time. If Dr. Dan Gehlbach diagnoses your partner with a low sperm count, fertility drugs may prove effective, but it will take several months to see results.

A commonly prescribed and relatively inexpensive fertility medication, clomiphene citrate (Clomid), stimulates ovulation in women. Fertility doctors, including Dr. Gehlbach, may also prescribe Clomid to help increase testosterone and enhance sperm production in male patients faced with fertility issues.

Sex hormones and fertility

People may perceive Clomid as a female infertility drug. You might be surprised, however, to learn that women and men produce both estrogen and testosterone. When men produce too much estrogen or women too much testosterone, fertility drugs such as Clomid can help correct the hormonal imbalance and improve fertility.

• In men, FSH and LH hormones tell the testes to make testosterone and sperm. Low FSH and LH in men = low sperm counts
• In women, FSH and LH hormones tell the ovaries to produce and release eggs. Low FSH and LH in women = ovulatory dysfunction

Will Clomid work for me?

A blood test measures FSH, LH, and testosterone levels to help Dr. Gehlbach determine whether Clomid is right for you. Taken as a daily dose, Clomid blocks estrogen activity and boosts testosterone production in men. Over time, Clomid use may improve sperm counts.

Male infertility accounts for about half of all cases, so finding a simple solution renews hope for many couples. Contact Midwest Reproductive Center to learn whether Clomid is a good treatment option for your situation.