Stimulating sperm production with Clomid for men
Every day, sperm is being continuously produced inside most men’s testicles. But for men with male factor infertility, the number of normal sperm available at any given time may still be too low to conceive a baby easily. When a semen analysis comes back with abnormal results indicating sperm problems, stimulating sperm production with Clomid for men can sometimes help. Our San Antonio male factor specialists may prescribe this medication, also known as clomiphene citrate, in certain cases for men with hormone issues as well as low sperm counts or low sperm motility.
How does Clomid for men work?
Men and women both have some of the same hormones that can affect their fertility. Luteinizing hormone (LH) encourages the release of testosterone in men, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays an important role in spermatogenesis, or sperm production. Clomid increases the levels of both of these hormones, and may be prescribed especially when a low sperm count is caused by a low testosterone level.
Because Clomid is not appropriate for all men with low sperm count, we first order a variety of male fertility tests to rule out any anatomical problems affecting fertility, and to get an accurate assessment of sperm quantity and quality as well as hormone levels.
How do men take Clomid?
Men who are prescribed Clomid will need to take this medication daily for three to four months. A typical dose is 25 mg every day, or 50 mg every other day.
It’s important to understand that Clomid doesn’t work in every man, and that this drug is currently not FDA-approved for use in stimulating sperm production in men. However, our San Antonio male factor specialists have found good results in some men taking Clomid. In one study conducted here at Texas Fertility Center, more than 58% of couples were able to conceive without IVF after improving sperm quality with Clomid.
To ensure safety and effectiveness of using Clomid for men, we monitor men closely while they are taking this medication.
Clomid for men can spark the production of too much testosterone, which can have a negative effect on sperm count. After taking this medication for three weeks, we will order blood tests to check FSH, LH, and testosterone levels. If testosterone is too high, the medication can be discontinued, or the dose can be reduced.
Because it takes three months or longer for sperm to be generated and then fully mature, using clomiphene citrate for stimulating sperm production takes time. We will repeat a semen analysis once the medication has had time to take effect, and if we do not see improvement in sperm counts or motility, the medication may be discontinued.
Learn more about stimulating sperm production with medication
If you are interested in trying Clomid for men, the first step is to schedule a complete fertility workup for both partners. Contact our office to make an appointment with our experienced San Antonio male factor specialists.