We may perform a Clomid Challenge test to get an accurate assessment of your egg supply. This is done by:

• Giving you a blood test to record your FSH and Estradiol levels on day 3 of your period
• Having you take a drug called Clomiphene citrate 100mg/day on days 5 to 9
• Giving you another blood test and recording your FSH and Estradiol levels again on day 10

Higher than normal levels of FSH may imply diminished ovarian reserve. Determining FSH values helps us determine appropriate fertility management strategies for each individual.

Clomiphene citrate is a follicle stimulating hormone, and a common starting point for helping the ovarian follicles to grow and mature. The medication works by blocking the effects of estrogen throughout the body, which responds by secreting more FSH. The corresponding rise in FSH stimulates growth of the follicles.

Some women will not ovulate with clomiphene citrate therapy. Others will ovulate but not become pregnant.

In some cases, the FSH rise that can be attained with clomiphene citrate is either too low or does not last long enough to provide sufficient FSH stimulation to correct the underlying problem.

Clomiphene citrate is generally given to women between days 3 to 7 or 5 to 9 of the cycle. Progress must be closely monitored to minimize chances of side effects, such as Polycystic Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome.