Clomid & IUI: Understanding Your Fertility Treatment Options

Question
I am 30 years old female and we have been trying to conceive for more than one year now. I consulted a Gyn and she recommended to go in for Clomid with IUI. My question is should we try with Clomid alone first and see the results OR should we go in for Clomid + IUI the very first time itself. What are the chances of conceiving with Clomid + Intercourse. My cycles are regular and come every 25 days. We have also been suggested some tests which we will be getting done in next couple of days and then start clomid, if required. Also let me know if there are any side effects of taking Clomid.

Answer
Hello,

Many doctors recommend Clomid without IUI first, and then move to IUI if no success after a few months of just the medication.  However, it's up to you and your doctor to decide the right choice for you.  It will also depend on the results of your tests.  Success rates with Clomid alone are fairly low, not much higher than those of the regular 25% chance you have each month.  However, if you don't ovulate, the drug can be successful by correcting this problem, if that is the problem.  However, it is not successful with many other infertile women, because other problems can be the cause, and Clomid really only corrects ovulation problems.  Nevertheless, it is usually a first step in treating infertility. Side effects are nausea, abdominal pain, headaches, etc.  Most common and the less common side effects are shown on Web MD or other medical websites if you type in Clomid.