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My Fertility

What Does a Fertility Specialist Do?

After your primary care physician or OB/GYN has conducted some preliminary tests, including ovulation monitoring, post-intercourse tests and basic blood work, you may be prescribed clomiphene citrate (such as CLOMID® or Serophene®) for several cycles. Hopefully, this basic treatment will work. 

If clomiphene citrate does not work after three to six cycles, it may be time to start seeing a fertility specialist, also called a reproductive endocrinologist (RE).

An RE specializes in treating reproductive disorders, and in addition to completing the same education and medical requirements as an OB/GYN, they have also finished a two- to three-year fellowship in reproductive endocrinology, passed specialized examinations (if board certified) and completed a two-year practice in reproductive endocrinology.

REs have extensive diagnostic methods and solutions including IVF that your OB/GYN may not offer. Based on test results, your RE may recommend advanced treatments and medications. 

You and your partner can see an RE for a consultation to gather information about possible next steps.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPER USE AND RISKS OF SEROPHENE® (clomiPHENE citrate tablets USP):

What are the uses of Serophene® (clomiPHENE citrate tablets USP)?

Serophene® is an oral prescription brand of clomiPHENE citrate. Serophene® is commonly prescribed as an initial treatment by an obstetrician / gynecologist (OB/GYN) or a fertility specialist, also called a reproductive endocrinologist (RE), to help stimulate ovulation. It is indicated for the treatment of ovulation dysfunction in women desiring pregnancy.

Serophene® is typically considered an initial therapy for patients experiencing ovulatory failure or dysfunction. Serophene® works by stimulating the body to release follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), the hormones necessary for follicle growth and ovulation.

Doctors specializing in infertility or reproductive health prescribe Serophene® to those patients needing medical assistance to have a child. After a thorough medical exam to determine your specific medical condition, your doctor may prescribe Serophene® because you need help with producing eggs or you need supplementation as part of your treatment program. Serophene® is used only for women seeking pregnancy.

Who should not use Serophene®?

Serophene® should not be used in patients who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant, in patients with primary ovarian failure (the ovaries no longer produce eggs), or in patients with allergies to ClomiPHENE citrate or any other ingredients in the medication.

Patients with cancer of the sex organs, liver disease or a history of liver dysfunction, or with a pituitary tumor or other tumor of the brain, should not use Serophene®. Women with a history of abnormal bleeding from the uterus or vagina or with swollen, enlarged, or painful ovaries should speak to their doctor before starting treatment.

What are the possible side effects of Serophene®?

Your doctor should review with you the risks and benefits of using Serophene®. As with any medication, report any and all side effects, symptoms or physical changes to your healthcare provider.

The most common side effects associated with Serophene® include hot flashes, stomach discomfort and bloating, nausea and vomiting, breast discomfort, headache and vaginal bleeding.

Serophene® can be associated with serious side effects, including Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) or lung and blood vessel problems. Prolonged use of Serophene® may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Use of fertility drugs can be associated with fertilization of more than 1 egg. This can lead to complications for the mother and the birth of 2 or more babies. Your healthcare provider will discuss with you the chances of multiple births.

These are not all the side effects of Serophene®. As with any medication, report any and all side effects, symptoms or physical changes to your healthcare provider.

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