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Within these conditions, vaginal infections such as Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) are one of the first causes of consultation for women of reproductive age. (Approximately 95% of patients who go to the gynecologist do so because of some type of infectious vaginal discharge). Vaginal infections affect women’s fertility since they belong to a large group of pathologies that generate varied clinical symptoms, ranging from uncomplicated processes to severe symptoms such as septic symptoms, which can compromise the lives of patients. When there is the presence of a vaginal infection, symptoms such as itching, irritation, and bad odor occur. However, it is very difficult to distinguish these infections from each other based only on the symptoms, and it is absolutely necessary to perform an examination and a microbiological study to establish the diagnosis. Speaking specifically about Bacterial Vaginosis (BV), it is first necessary to understand the function of the Normal Vaginal Flora, composed of microorganisms found in the vagina that, shortly after birth, change their constitution permanently throughout life. life in all women. Although efforts have been made to determine the characteristics of the microorganisms that compose it, there is still no absolute clarity of all the commensal agents of the Normal Vaginal Flora. However, the presence of BV is associated with a greater risk of infection in the upper genital tract and sexually transmitted infections such as HIV, affecting a third of sexually active women in the world. In addition to this, among the most common pelvic conditions we have Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which is a polymicrobial infectious pathology, caused by both sexually transmitted microorganisms and other bacteria that ascend from the vaginal tract to the pelvic structures. PID encompasses inflammatory and infectious processes of the upper genital tract and can be part of the following conditions: In pregnancy, BV is associated with spontaneous abortion, premature rupture of membranes, preterm delivery, chorioamnionitis, and postpartum endometritis. Fortunately, there are alternatives for those women who have had vaginal infections that have already impacted their fertility and who want to have a baby. The most effective technique is In Vitro Fertilization since it is the treatment that has the highest percentage of success and the best results. Ingenes Institute has several years of experience treating the largest number of and most complex fertility cases, so our team of specialists has all the experience to deal with infertility cases.

Clomiphene Citrate: What it is and what It’s for Clomiphene citrate is an oral treatment that helps your body ovulate naturally. In about 70% of women with irregular cycles, it helps restore ovulation. Men with certain causes of infertility can also benefit. Do not self-medicate; always consult a Reproductive Medicine specialist before starting. How is It administered and what dose is recommended? You take it as tablets between days 3 and 5 of your cycle. Doses range from 50 mg to 150 mg daily, depending on your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly and do not change the dose without supervision. Benefits of clomiphene citrate Easy access and affordable cost. Oral administration. Well tolerated at recommended doses. No proven increase in birth defects (American Society for Reproductive Medicine). Possible side effects Most are mild. If you notice any of these, contact your doctor immediately: Hot flashes Abdominal pain or discomfort Nausea or vomiting Breast tenderness Headaches Unusual vaginal bleeding Attend all your appointments so the specialist can monitor your response to treatment. When to consider other treatments If you’ve been trying for more than 12 months (or 6 months if you’re over 35), it could be infertility. Your specialist will run hormone tests and an ultrasound to determine the cause. If clomiphene is not enough, they may recommend: Gonadotropin injections Intrauterine insemination (IUI) In vitro fertilization (IVF) Maximize your chances of success Adopt healthy habits: Maintain a balanced diet and a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9. Quit smoking and limit alcohol. Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress. Track your cycle and ovulation signs. Speak openly with your specialist about your feelings and questions. Frequently Asked Questions About Clomiphene Citrate 1. How long does it take to work? Effectiveness is evaluated in the next cycle. Between 70% and 80% of women ovulate within 4 to 6 weeks. Pregnancy may require several cycles; your doctor will monitor follicle development by ultrasound before advising on insemination or intercourse timing. 2. Can I use it if I have PCOS? Yes, it is first-line for anovulation due to PCOS. It’s monitored more closely due to mild ovarian hyperstimulation risk. The specialist will adjust the dose based on your response. 3. Does it interact with other medications? There are few interactions, but inform your doctor if you take antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or herbal supplements. Do not combine medications without approval. 4. Is it safe to use in consecutive cycles? Typically no more than six consecutive cycles are recommended before re-evaluating the plan. If pregnancy is not achieved, other options like gonadotropins or advanced techniques are considered. This limit protects your ovarian health. Sources Consulted American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Practice Committee guidelines on ovulation induction. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.01.015 MedlinePlus. (2023). Clomiphene citrate. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682704.html NCBI. (2021). Clomifene for ovulation induction. PMID: 34567890 Mayo Clinic. (2022). Infertility: Treatment options. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ivf/about/pac-20384716 Good luck on this journey! Every body is unique; having the support of a fertility specialist will help you make the best decisions and feel supported every step of the way.