If you and your partner have been having difficulty getting pregnant, there is a good chance you will be prescribed infertility drugs to assist you in conception. You probably have a lot of questions- What are the most commonly used types of fertility pills to get pregnant? How do they work, are they safe and effective, and what side effects should you expect?

The most commonly prescribed fertility pills to get pregnant are called Clomiphene. This drug is known by the brand name Clomid or Serophene. It is prescribed to women who need assistance ovulating (or releasing viable eggs for fertilization). It does require a prescription from your gynecologist to obtain. As with any medication, you need to talk to your doctor before starting the drug, and follow all of their guidelines for proper use and follow up!

How does this medication help you conceive? The pill works by stimulating areas in your brain to release naturally produced hormones called GnRH, FSH and LH. These hormones are the ones responsible for telling your ovaries to release mature eggs that will be ready for fertilization. Basically the drug gives your body a boost to help produce more of these hormones, than you may be able to produce naturally on your own.

Using Clomiphene fertility pills to get pregnant can be very effective. Generally 80% of women treated with this medication will ovulate. Within 9 cycles of beginning the drug approximately 70-75% of those women become pregnant. If you do not become pregnant after 6 menstrual cycles, your doctor may decide to prescribe other types of infertility drugs.

What side effects can you expect by using Clomiphene fertility pills to get pregnant? Most side effects are pretty mild, and can include hot flashes, irritability, nausea, headaches, breast tenderness and blurred vision. There are rare cases of more serious side effects, mainly ovarian hyper stimulation (meaning your ovaries get over stimulated) this causes abdominal cramping and ovary enlargement and can be life threatening if severe. If you have ANY concerns about the side effects of taking this, or any medication, speak to your doctor before and during treatment.

Many couples have safely and successfully used fertility pills to get pregnant. Consult with your doctor to see if this option is right for you!