Clomid and Fertility: Success Rates and Considerations After 37

Question
Dear Dr. Ramirez:

I became pregnant with my daughter in 2007 after one round of the lowest dose of Clomid. (I took the Clomid because of long, irregular cycles and multiple miscarriages.) I conceived my son in December 2008 on the first try while still nursing my 13-month old once a day.  I am hoping to have that same success again for one or two more children.  I just turned 37 and I'm kind of concerned about my age.  If I should run into any problems now that I am a little older, I was wondering when a woman typically becomes too old for Clomid?  Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Melodie P.

Answer
Hello Melodie from the U.S.,

There is no age limit for the use of Clomid.  Because you have recently been successful, it would be a good idea to try that method again.  The problem with age is the eqq quality.  That is the hurdle that you have to get over.  It has nothing to do with the medication used.  The advantage of using Clomid or any other fertiltiy medication in the treatment of age related infertility, is that it can induce ovulationn of more than one egg at a time.  The goal at 37 would be to try to get you to ovulate 3-5 eggs at a time.  In that way there is an increased chance of finding a good egg.  We know that at age 37, only about 20% of eggs will form normal embryos.  That is the age factor.

Good Luck,

Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.

for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf