Provera and Clomid: Round 1

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

My husband and I have been TTC for nearly 2 years and found out about 1 year ago that I have PCOS. Fast forward to now and my doctor gave me script for Provera to force a withdrawal bleed and then she will give me a script for Clomid on CD1. I'm anxious as we want a baby so bad. I've taken day 1 of Provera and the nausea is super strong. Any tips or success stories for encouragement?

jennifer0428 · October 2015

I've never taken those meds but I would call your OB and tell them you're super nauseous and see if they can give you Zofran to get you through. They come in 4mg dissolving tabs and I always suggest starting with half because not everyone needs the whole tab. That's just my opinion.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Thanks I will do that. I know it's a site effect and I'll do anything but I had to go back to sleep and sleep off the nausea.

bsckgb7 · October 2015

Please don't take Clomid from an OB. It's a very powerful fertility medication and can cause lifelong problems if not properly monitored (which most OBs don't). Please get to an RE.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

My OB is monitoring me. She's been the best. My previous OB didn't do anything. The new one sends me to ultrasounds every 3 months to keep an eye on the cysts and has been very encouraging.

TheBorg7of9 · October 2015

Ok. Hello and welcome. I have been on clomid myself and have read many stories on this board for 6 years from women on clomid.

First of all before you take clomid, you need to make sure you don't have any other problems that would make the clomid moot. That is because clomid has a lifetime max of 6 cycles. After that some doctors won't give more clomid because of a potential concern about cancer. Although that link has not been proven. Also, if it doesn't work after 6 cycles, it's probably not going to work. The two most important tests are a semen analysis for your husband and an hsg to make sure your tubes are open.

For each cycle you are on clomid, you need Bloodwork and vaginal ultrasounds on cycle day 3 and then starting mid cycle about every other day until you ovulate. Opks are not reliable when you are on clomid. The tests on cycle day 3 are to measure your hormones, check for pregnancy (clomid is not good if pregnabt) and check for cysts (clomid causes cysts. Also, if you start a cycle with a cyst and take more clomid, the cyst may grow exponentially and cause you to lose an ovary. I have seen some women on this site end up in the ER because they weren't monitored.)

The ultrasounds also check if you are overresponding or underresponding. If you overrespond (like I did) you have to decide whether to cancel the cycle or risk high order multiples and a second trimester selective abortion. If you underrespond, you doc may change meds for next time.

The ultrasounds also check your uterine lining, because clomid might cause your uterine lining to be too thin and prevent pregnancy.

Another side effect is that clomid may dry up your cervical mucus, thereby decreasing your chances of pregnancy. That's why reproductive endocrinologists usually pair clomid with an intrauterine insemination.

Finally, I would very highly recommend you see a reproductive endocrinologist for infertility and not an OB. REs are the experts here, not OBs and they do the proper tests and monitoring as a matter of course.

TheBorg7of9 · October 2015

ChelseyE1414 said:
My husband and I have been TTC for nearly 2 years and found out about 1 year ago that I have PCOS. Fast forward to now and my doctor gave me script for Provera to force a withdrawal bleed and then she will give me a script for Clomid on CD1. I'm anxious as we want a baby so bad. I've taken day 1 of Provera and the nausea is super strong. Any tips or success stories for encouragement?

Quote

bsckgb7 · October 2015

ChelseyE1414 said:

My OB is monitoring me. She's been the best. My previous OB didn't do anything. The new one sends me to ultrasounds every 3 months to keep an eye on the cysts and has been very encouraging.

You should have MULTIPLE ultrasounds EACH cycle. One at CD 1-3 to check for cycts. This has to be done EVERY month. Also, you need ultrasounds on CD12-14 to check for follicle response and lining. See above from TheBorg.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Why would my OB prescribe me something she can't do? She has been great in every other aspect of this journey. Why wouldn't she refers me to a RE if that's what I need? I trust her. She does plan to monitor me and do the ultrasounds to check everything once I have a cycle. That's goal 1, for me to actually have a cycle.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Why are you being rude? I'm just trying to understand all this. My OB had no concerns yesterday other than I may conceive twins. That's why I'm not understanding all this other information that's being throw my way.

patriciahomol · October 2015

ChelseyE1414 said:

Why are you being rude? I'm just trying to understand all this. My OB had no concerns yesterday other than I may conceive twins. That's why I'm not understanding all this other information that's being throw my way.

use the search function to search previous threads. there is a lot of great information/resources there

ArtlessIbex · October 2015

Taking Clomid without proper monitoring (multiple ultrasounds per cycle) is putting your future fertility at risk. There are a number of women on these boards in the past who have been in the ER or lost an ovary from taking it irresponsibly.
The women here have good advice. Your OB is legally able to prescribe you Clomid, but that does not mean she is the proper person to do so.
Please reconsider asking your OB for a referral to an RE.

TheBorg7of9 · October 2015

ChelseyE1414 said:

My OB is monitoring me. She's been the best. My previous OB didn't do anything. The new one sends me to ultrasounds every 3 months to keep an eye on the cysts and has been very encouraging.

You need several ultrasounds PER month while you are on clomid, one every three months is not good enough. You are at risk for cysts, overstimulation and thinned uterine lining.

Also, did you husband get a semen analysis and did you get an hsg?

If you were being treated with an RE, they would take care of all of this in short order.

I know you trust your OB and I'm sure she's a nice person. But that doesn't mean that she is qualified to treat infertility. We are just trying to help you. You are not the first one to trust and be treated for infertility by an OB, but OBs simply are not qualified for this work. We are just giving you information that you don't have and we are not being rude. If you get a cyst from clomid and continue to take clomid and you get a cyst, it will grow exponentially and you might end up losing an ovary. I have heard this story several times on this site from other people who also trusted their OBs.

Read this story: https://gbcb3tif.wordpress.com/a-warning-about-clomid/

LoveIsOwlYouNeed · October 2015

ChelseyE1414 said:

Why would my OB prescribe me something she can't do? She has been great in every other aspect of this journey. Why wouldn't she refers me to a RE if that's what I need? I trust her. She does plan to monitor me and do the ultrasounds to check everything once I have a cycle. That's goal 1, for me to actually have a cycle.

The Borg has explained it well. Any doctor can prescribe any medication, it's not like they can only prescribe certain medications. Would you ask a dermatologist to prescribe your fertility medication? Probably not and there is something similar here. An OB's job to to help you through pregnancy and delivery, they don't specialize in helping you get pregnant. That's what an RE specializes in.

Also, as many people have pointed out, with a limited number of times you can use Clomid in your life, why wouldn't you want to make sure it's done properly. And if you haven't had the other things checked out like the SA and your tubes checked, all the Clomid in the world won't matter, so those really should get checked too.

These insights aren't meant to insult your OB or be mean to you. They are being made in your best interest based on experience an knowledge from people, like the Borg, who have been there. They are trying to help you, not be rude. Just consider what they are saying, that's all.

0Face · October 2015

^:)^

delujm0 · October 2015

TheBorg7of9 said:

ChelseyE1414 said:

My OB is monitoring me. She's been the best. My previous OB didn't do anything. The new one sends me to ultrasounds every 3 months to keep an eye on the cysts and has been very encouraging.

You need several ultrasounds PER month while you are on clomid, one every three months is not good enough. You are at risk for cysts, overstimulation and thinned uterine lining.

Also, did you husband get a semen analysis and did you get an hsg?

If you were being treated with an RE, they would take care of all of this in short order.

I know you trust your OB and I'm sure she's a nice person. But that doesn't mean that she is qualified to treat infertility. We are just trying to help you. You are not the first one to trust and be treated for infertility by an OB, but OBs simply are not qualified for this work. We are just giving you information that you don't have and we are not being rude. If you get a cyst from clomid and continue to take clomid and you get a cyst, it will grow exponentially and you might end up losing an ovary. I have heard this story several times on this site from other people who also trusted their OBs.

Read this story: https://gbcb3tif.wordpress.com/a-warning-about-clomid/

The bolded is extremely important here, and one of the best reasons to see an RE. It doesn't matter how much Clomid you take, if you have blocked tubes or your husband has low sperm count, you will not get pregnant. Why waste your 6 cycle lifetime max of Clomid if there is zero chance of success? Please see an RE. There could be a relatively simple reason for your infertility. If you have blocked tubes, they can be unblocked and you may be able to get pregnant without any drugs whatsoever.

I feel like a lot of people are like "weeeee if I take Clomid I might have twins!!" but the reason for that is that if you over respond, you could release A LOT of eggs, not just two. Twins are fine and dandy...but unless you want to be the next Octomom, I suggest you reconsider the "every 3 months" ultrasound and go see an RE that will monitor you properly. Additionally, if your lining thins too much from using the Clomid, it may never recover - meaning that you may never be able to get pregnant, ever. Are you willing to risk that just to avoid going to a couple of extra doctor appointments? If so, I'm going to assume you are a troll, because that doesn't make any logical sense.

PrimRoseMama · October 2015

OP please listen to the very educated ladies trying to do you a solid.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

The every 3 months ultrasounds were specifically to monitor my PCOS. This is the first round of Clomid so my doctor Wil lmonitor me through that as she should. Doing the tests on day 3 and whatnot. I will call my doctor this afternoon to discuss why I didn't have hsg test and why my husband didn't have a sperm count test. I appreciate the information there were just a few comments that sounded harsh. I knew nothing about an RE so it's very new information.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Thanks I will definitely discuss those with my doctor but not sure what decision we will make. Its not like we are hoping for twins. I just meant it wouldn't be a horrible thing. Thank you all for your input. I appreciate it and definitely has some questions for my doctor

TheBorg7of9 · October 2015

ChelseyE1414 said:

Thanks I will definitely discuss those with my doctor but not sure what decision we will make. Its not like we are hoping for twins. I just meant it wouldn't be a horrible thing. Thank you all for your input. I appreciate it and definitely has some questions for my doctor

The first time I took clomid (50mg), I had four mature follicles. We decided to cancel the cycle to avoid the risk of high order multiples or the chance that we might have to have a selective abortion during the second trimester. (Selective reductions are always done during the second trimester). Without proper monitoring, I would not have known that I had four follicles.

sldp123 · October 2015

This doesn't have to do with the OP, but I'm not sure where else would be more appropriate to post this and I'm just wondering. With all the risks and the monitoring required with Clomid, and since it seems like OBs aren't really qualified to do everything that goes along with it, why do they prescribe it? Surely they know this information. Just curious, I haven't been prescribed it or even considered it at this point or anything, and we will definitely see an RE when the time comes anyway, but I can't help but wonder how these things even happen (women losing ovaries due to not being monitored, etc.)

TheBorg7of9 · October 2015

sldp123 said:

This doesn't have to do with the OP, but I'm not sure where else would be more appropriate to post this and I'm just wondering. With all the risks and the monitoring required with Clomid, and since it seems like OBs aren't really qualified to do everything that goes along with it, why do they prescribe it? Surely they know this information. Just curious, I haven't been prescribed it or even considered it at this point or anything, and we will definitely see an RE when the time comes anyway, but I can't help but wonder how these things even happen (women losing ovaries due to not being monitored, etc.)

Because they can.

sldp123 · October 2015

TheBorg7of9 said:

sldp123 said:

This doesn't have to do with the OP, but I'm not sure where else would be more appropriate to post this and I'm just wondering. With all the risks and the monitoring required with Clomid, and since it seems like OBs aren't really qualified to do everything that goes along with it, why do they prescribe it? Surely they know this information. Just curious, I haven't been prescribed it or even considered it at this point or anything, and we will definitely see an RE when the time comes anyway, but I can't help but wonder how these things even happen (women losing ovaries due to not being monitored, etc.)

Because they can.

Yeah, I guess that about sums it up for some docs. It's kind of scary, I wouldn't know anything about these risks (or many other things) if I didn't frequent this board. Although, I am still the type to do my own research on drugs or procedures prescribed to me, but I can definitely see how some women wouldn't and would trust their OBs.

delujm0 · October 2015

sldp123 said:

TheBorg7of9 said:

sldp123 said:

This doesn't have to do with the OP, but I'm not sure where else would be more appropriate to post this and I'm just wondering. With all the risks and the monitoring required with Clomid, and since it seems like OBs aren't really qualified to do everything that goes along with it, why do they prescribe it? Surely they know this information. Just curious, I haven't been prescribed it or even considered it at this point or anything, and we will definitely see an RE when the time comes anyway, but I can't help but wonder how these things even happen (women losing ovaries due to not being monitored, etc.)

Because they can.

Yeah, I guess that about sums it up for some docs. It's kind of scary, I wouldn't know anything about these risks (or many other things) if I didn't frequent this board. Although, I am still the type to do my own research on drugs or procedures prescribed to me, but I can definitely see how some women wouldn't and would trust their OBs.

Absolutely. Before I was on this board, I had no idea about the risks of Clomid. I actually read up on it and when a friend told me her OB had offered it to her, I was able to warn her about why that was a bad idea. OBs mean well...they want you to get pregnant...but they just don't have the correct continuing education requirements to be functioning as an RE (unless you have one of the few OBs that are board certified REs as well). REs exist to help you get pregnant. OBs exist to get the baby you are already pregnant with out of you.

I liken it to this...say you have a heart condition and see a cardiologist. The cardiologist thinks that your condition is due to general anxiety disorder and your stress level as a result of it. The cardiologist is legally allowed to prescribe you anti-anxiety medication, and might do that. However, it is a much better idea to see a psychiatrist to confirm the diagnosis and determine the proper treatment of it, because they are the experts on mental health. Just because a cardiologist CAN prescribe you anti-anxiety meds doesn't mean they SHOULD. Same with OBs prescribing Clomid.

turtle148 · October 2015

I'm going to give you a completely different perspective. I am prescribed clomid from my OB (the horror) as well. He sent me to the "best RE" office in the large metro area I live in (the one with several locations and so much glory). The staff was incompetent to say the least and on more than one occasion scheduled me on the phone without scheduling me in the computer. Once I finally got in to see the Fertility God RE I was in for a rude awakening. He would not treat me unless I completed IUI at a minimum as well. Needless to say my imbecile OB was mad as fire because every test that he completed showed no need for IUI (something his pathetic little OB clinic does). He was actually hoping the RE Fertility God would have some additional tricks up his sleeve that maybe he was not aware of because what does he know he's only a doctor. I'm fully monitored by my OB with multiple ultrasounds and blood work through the month. Yes it is possible to get help from the ignorant OB as long as you are educated about what needs to be monitored and are willing to pay for it. We pay out of pocket for my monitoring just like we would have at the RE except it's not going to some a$$clown who thinks he is holding my fertility hostage.

I will tell you that my diagnosis is not the same as yours so take this with a grain of salt. My problem is not getting pregnant it's staying pregnant after 5 to 6 weeks. An RE could be exactly what you need but I hope you don't deal with one like I did.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Thank you turtle148 for your perspective. After talking to my OB, I feel reassured. She said she is a specalist OB and will be no itoring me the same as if I was going to an RE so it really so t make a difference for now. If she's going to monitor me and do the same test then I would rather stick with her because I am already comfortable with her and won't have to wait for a new RE to confirm my diagnosis.

Lulucooks · October 2015

Funny thing about doctors, sometimes there are bad ones.

Lulu story time! When I was diagnosed with my kidney disorder I went to the swankyist hospital in town, you know, the private one with the extra fancy equipment. I learned they didn't have a nephrologist on staff, but cycled traveling docs through. The one I was saddled with was the worst. Insinuated every horrible thing he could. Caused me serious pain putting in stints that were too big, refused to brief me after surgery (nor did he brief anyone who was with me). Just bad. I have since found lovely doctors, who are wonderful.

I wouldn't judge an entire specialty based off one doc with bad bed side manners.

turtle148 · October 2015

I'm very concerned if she hasn't had all the basic tests but I'm very happy she is at least asking for help. Everyone seemed to jump on her for simply asking. How about we go in a more positive direction and tell her (rather ask her) what needs to be done before she jumps on the clomid band wagon.
1. Have you had an hsg to see if your tubes are clear?
2. Have you charted and do you use a BBT?
3. Are they considering metformin as an option?
It's things like this that will actually help. Then she could ask questions related to each area if she doesn't know about it (or use the questions to help her see if her OB is truly the right treatment option). It was literally like her being publicly flogged for seeing her OB and being prescribed clomid. She didn't write the prescription.
I fully understand that not every RE will be a money hungry clown. But not every OB is a moron who does not have the experience to help or monitor while on clomid. I simply thought we are here to support each other and not ridicule someone for seeking our help.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

1. No I have not had an hsg. My doctor did not believe it necessary since I've been pregnant but resulted in a m/c at 6.5 weeks.
2. No I have not charted but I did buy a BBT tonight.
3.I have been on metformin since February of 2015.
I appreciate everyone's input it was just overwhelming at the time. As I was feeling pretty excited and ready to try this but then with all the comments I began to doubt it, but my gut still tells me my OB is a specialist and will take care of me.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

I didn't realize there was a "newbie board". I just joined today.

Ducks&Cats · October 2015

Welcome @chelseyE1414! I joined last week and I still feel very new to the forum. Good luck with your Clomid, I have no experience with this drug but wanted to reach out to you regardless. I will keep my fingers crossed that everything goes well for you!

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Thank you for the warm welcome Duck&Cats! I wish you luck on your journey as well.

turtle148 · October 2015

I fully understand your point. So what if she would have attempted to lurk (while being confused with all the terms never once mentioned to her from her OB) and started clomid thinking it's fine? We have the ability to educate her on what these tests are for and why they are useful. Posting stupid pictures making fun of her is not going to help her understand the importance behind it rather drive her away thinking we are all just a bunch of hormonal crazies who smell fresh blood.

Lulucooks · October 2015

turtle148 said:
I fully understand your point. So what if she would have attempted to lurk (while being confused with all the terms never once mentioned to her from her OB) and started clomid thinking it's fine? We have the ability to educate her on what these tests are for and why they are useful. Posting stupid pictures making fun of her is not going to help her understand the importance behind it rather drive her away thinking we are all just a bunch of hormonal crazies who smell fresh blood.

@TheBorg7of9 left a wonderfully detailed response that explains things very easily in the third or fourth post on this.

The white knighting seems odd here.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Can someone tag me in this newbie board that keeps being mentioned??? As I mentioned before I just joined the site and am still learning to navigate it...

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

So it's wrong for me to trust my OB?? I said I would ask the questions you all mentioned but also asked why they were so important and why my OB would basically screw me over. Not everyone has a bad OB. I appreciate the information, I really do. It just appeared that one or two bad experiences were ruling everything.

Lulucooks · October 2015

Did you read this?

https://gbcb3tif.wordpress.com/a-warning-about-clomid/

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Yes I did. Someone posted it first thing this morning and I immediately read it.

ChelseyE1414 · October 2015

Thank you for all the responses. I have reached out to my OB to discuss further. And now after reading the "newbie board" I've been made aware of certain rules. I apologize if I offended anyone by not following the premises rules set for this site. Maybe this site isn't for me. I was excited about my new option and wanted to hear supporting comments as no one in my family has had fertility issues and so it's been really hard having no one to discuss with.

ladeuce13 · October 2015

@ChelseyE1414 Don't leave . . . this is a great community. So many new members ask similar questions, get similar responses, and go on to have supportive experiences here. As a few PPs have said, they have seen some bad experiences come through after Clomid and don't want someone else to struggle unnecessarily.

As you'll find, the women here are very supportive and passionate about it. That can be hard for new members to understand when they first get here. Hang in there.

letyourheartbeyourguide · October 2015

turtle148 said:
I'm going to give you a completely different perspective. I am prescribed clomid from my OB (the horror) as well. He sent me to the "best RE" office in the large metro area I live in (the one with several locations and so much glory). The staff was incompetent to say the least and on more than one occasion scheduled me on the phone without scheduling me in the computer. Once I finally got in to see the Fertility God RE I was in for a rude awakening. He would not treat me unless I completed IUI at a minimum as well. Needless to say my imbecile OB was mad as fire because every test that he completed showed no need for IUI (something his pathetic little OB clinic does). He was actually hoping the RE Fertility God would have some additional tricks up his sleeve that maybe he was not aware of because what does he know he's only a doctor. I'm fully monitored by my OB with multiple ultrasounds and blood work through the month. Yes it is possible to get help from the ignorant OB as long as you are educated about what needs to be monitored and are willing to pay for it. We pay out of pocket for my monitoring just like we would have at the RE except it's not going to some a$$clown who thinks he is holding my fertility hostage.

I will tell you that my diagnosis is not the same as yours so take this with a grain of salt. My problem is not getting pregnant it's staying pregnant after 5 to 6 weeks. An RE could be exactly what you need but I hope you don't deal with one like I did.

Wait a second. This bolded part is critical and I'm afraid it's getting lost in the discussion.

Please correct me if I'm misinterpreting. Your OB prescribed you Clomid because of recurrent early miscarriages?

Someone please please let me know if I'm wrong, because I'm in no way an expert here. But from my understanding, that is NOT what Clomid is for. Clomid is to trigger ovulation. If you've been getting pregnant (without fertility meds), then you're already ovulating. And if you're already ovulating and your OB prescribed you Clomid, then your OB is doing exactly what PPs are cautioning about - treating Clomid like some miracle drug rather than the powerful (and potentially risky) fertility medicine that it is.

Provera and Clomid: Round 1

Re: Provera and Clomid: Round 1

LFAF Summer 2016 Awards:

TTC #1 --- BFP #1 5/15, loss at 5 weeks --- BFP #2 12/15, loss at 4+3 --- RE testing 3/16 normal, still trying for our rainbow

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