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Fertility Therapies

Clomid: Natural Alternatives to Clomid

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula
July 22, 2021
Reviewed by Christine Traxler, MD

For women facing infertility due to anovulation (lack of ovulation), or irregular ovulation, due to PCOS or other fertility issues, Clomid is often one of the first fertility medications suggested by doctors. Why? According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, clomiphene, aka, Clomid, “is in a class of medications called ovulatory stimulants.” This drug is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). It increases production of gonadotropins (hormones released by the pituitary gland) by inhibiting negative feedback on the hypothalamus. It is used for ovarian hyperstimulation for (in-vitro fertilization) IVF preparation, and to stimulate and regulate ovulation in women with anovulatory cycles. It is most commonly used for women with PCOS.

To make a long story short- this drug forces the body to ovulate, sometimes stimulating multiple follicles to ovulate.

Clomid is the name for the medication clomifene or clomiphene. Clomid use began in the 1960s and has been used on millions of women. This long history of use gives us a clear picture of common side effects. The use of Clomid comes with the possibility of the following common side effects:

  • multiple births
  • enlarged ovaries
  • pain and bloating in the abdomen/pelvis
  • headache
  • nausea
  • mid-cycle spotting
  • heavy menstrual bleeding

Other side effects include mood swings, headaches, fatigue, and breast tenderness. In approximately 30% of women taking Clomid, their cervical mucus will become hostile to sperm, thereby preventing conception.

There are many other rare side effects, including possibility of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and ovarian rupture. The risk for this goes up with each subsequent round of use.

Natural Alternatives to Clomid

If you are reading this article it is probably because you are considering using Clomid or have used it in the past. It may be that you are preparing to go for IVF. But the main reason you are here is because you want to know if there are natural alternatives to Clomid. After all we are dedicated to bringing you the best information on natural therapies for fertility. We want you to be the most vibrant and healthy person you can be. Sometimes despite our best intentions in life, we still end up going for medical fertility treatments and you know what, that is okay! But before you go down that road, consider the best alternatives to Clomid, ways to naturally bring about ovulation and a regular menstrual cycle.

Before beginning Clomid think about your long-term health. While Clomid may help you get pregnant right away, it does not solve the root of the problem. Have you asked yourself, “Why am I not ovulating?” Fertility Herbs work with the body, to bring about real change long-term. This benefits your fertility health in the long run. The overall goal would be to support the overall health of the body, as this will bring about the greatest reproductive health.

Clomid cannot solve poor egg health, PCOS, or amenorrhea, etc. It is a once a month stimulation drug, which you must go back for each cycle, in hopes that the stimulation will make you to ovulate. Even before you choose to use Clomid, you will increase your chances of successful conception by preparing the body for pregnancy by following a simple, natural protocol for 3-6 months prior to trying to conceive…

  • Eat a nourishing Fertility Diet
  • Exercise regularly
  • Implement a Stress Reduction plan
  • Consider Supportive Fertility Herbs
  • Practice Fertility Massage

Vitex also known as Chaste Tree Berry (Vitex agnus-castus)
The berry of this small tree has been found to help normalize ovulation. Vitex supports hormonal balance in the body by having an effect on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (hormonal feedback loop), correcting the problem at the source. Vitex has been used to reduce Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) with great results. This herb takes time to be effective, but works to normalize the entire menstrual cycle, not force ovulation.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii)
Maca promotes hormonal balance overall, and is nourishing to the endocrine system, which controls hormone function. This herb has been shown safe to combine with all the herbs on this page.

Tribulus (Tribulus terrestris)
Tribulus may normalize ovulation in infertile women when used prior to ovulation. In her text Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health, physician, midwife, and herbalist Dr. Aviva Romm shares of one study performed on 36 women who were not ovulating, showed that that 67% realized normal ovulation after only 2-3 months of consistent use. Tribulus has also been found to be a nourishing tonic for the female reproductive system as a whole, especially concerning the ovaries. Rat studies out of Islamic Azad University in Iran, showed that this herb promotes normal ovarian function and the reduction in ovarian cysts. Tribulus has also been found to reduce antisperm antibodies.

Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
Shatavari’s main constituents are steroidal-sapponins, suggesting its use as an estrogen regulator, the estrogen modulating in turn may contribute to menstrual cycle regulation. This plant has shown to protect the body from stressors, including stress related infertility issues. It combines well with Tribulus. Shatavari is a supportive female reproductive health tonic. Supports healthy cervical mucous production.

Pregnancy Prep Herbal Blend
This herbal formula is specific for women who want to support their reproductive health, improve timing of ovulation, increase uterine health, promote circulation to the reproductive organs, while normalizing progesterone levels. It contains Tribulus, Vitex, Maca and a variety of other supportive herbs. To learn more about this herbal blend click here…

Can Clomid be Combined With Herbs for Fertility?

No. We do not recommend using any herbs for fertility during a fertility medication cycle. A cycle is about one month, or one menstrual cycle. Even if you are using a fertility medication for only one part of your cycle, we do not suggest using any herbs for fertility during other times in that same cycle. Clomid is usually given for 5 days in the beginning of the cycle to stimulate ovulation. Just because you are not taking it for a full cycle, it is best to not use any herbs for fertility in that same cycle.

Plan ahead. If you are thinking of starting a fertility medication, make your doctor appointment for about a month after weaning yourself off the herbs you are taking. Continuing a multivitamin, cod liver oil, whey protein powder and spirulina would be fine.

Clomid and IVF

The use of Clomid for IVF as part of ART (artificial reproductive technology) is also a common practice. Let us consider for a moment that IVF is usually an infertile couples last choice. How successful is ART?

According to the Centers for Disease Control’s 2009 report on ART, of all couples who have gone through ART, only 37% led to pregnancy. 30% resulted in live birth. This means that of the successful ART pregnancies, 70% did not result in live birth. These statistics are not based per woman, they are calculated per new cycle and do not reflect how many ART cycles a woman may have gone through. Consider this, of the 102,478 ART cycles started in 2009, 30,787 resulted in live births. Again, this is where thoughtful natural fertility planning can help to increase chances of a successful IVF. We want you to have not only successful conception, but a healthy pregnancy and birth. To learn the best ways to prepare for IVF, click here…

Too learn more about related subjects covered in this article, please visit the following links:

Stress and Your Fertility

How to Use Fertility Herbs To Enhance Your Fertility Naturally

Shatavari: Fertility Herb from India

References

  • The Downside of Clomid. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.womens-health.co.uk/downside-of-clomid.html
  • Infertility – EPublications. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/infertility.html
  • Dehghan, A., Esfandiari, A., & Bigdeli, S. M. (2012). Alternative treatment of ovarian cysts with Tribulus terrestris extract: A rat model. Reproduction in domestic animals, 47(1), e12-e15. Retrieved from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01877.x
  • Romm, Aviva. (2010). Botanical Medicine for Women’s Health. St. Louis, Missouri: Churchill Livingstone.
  • Dr. Marcus (n.d.). Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Retrieved from http://www.ivf-infertility.com/ivf/standard/complications/ovarian_stimulation/ohss.php
  • Clomiphene. (22, 0ctober 2018). U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682704.html
  • Assisted Reproductive Technology Surveillance — United States, 2009. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/ss6107a1.htm

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Fertility Q&A: Fertility Diet Alternatives? Vegan, Raw, Allergens...

About the Author

Dalene Barton - Certified Herbalist, Birth Doula

Practicing natural health and herbalism for over 18 years, Dalene received her training and herbal certification under the guidance of Lynn Albers at Yarmony Mt. Herbal College in Colorado in 2000. She went on to become a Certified Birth Doula at Birthingway College of Midwifery in Portland, Oregon in 2007. As a Birth Doula, Dalene has helped to bring many new lives in to this world. Dalene has written 280+ fertility articles and with her vast array of herbal and holistic healing knowledge has helped 1000's of women on their journey to Motherhood.

5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally

  • Learn the 5 different areas to focus on for optimal fertility health
  • Learn how to support hormonal health with herbs and essential oils
  • Tips on transitioning to a whole food fertility diet.
  • Self-care therapies to support your reproductive health

@NaturalFertilityInfo

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 29

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This is how I make my salad every week. Love love love this salad. 

I think the key to a good salad is lots of little treasures throughout the salad. 

Let me know if you are going to give it a try and what you think of it!

👇 If you would like to learn more about eating for fertility and join the 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge. Type FIVE in the comments below and I will send you the link 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 29

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Juicing is the easiest way to get more veggies and fruits into your diet. 

The key I have found to be consistent with juicing is to batch juice. 

Every 3 days I make a big batch of juice so for the next 3 days all I have to do is reach in the fridge and my juice is ready to go. 

Do you juice? What's your go-to recipe?

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 29

Open
Lowering cortisol levels is important for ovulation and healthy hormone production. 

When the body has high levels of cortisone the reproductive system will be the first system that stops getting resources. 

Take daily steps to help reduce stress and lower chronic stress. 

Some of my favorite stress reducing activities are: 
💗 Meditation 
💗 Massage 
💗 Exercise 
💗 EFT 
💗 Breathwork 
💗 Therapeutic essential oils such as lavender 
💗 Therapy 
💗 Hot baths 
💗 Nature walks 
💗 Earthing 
💗 Kick boxing 
💗 Mediation 

:) What is your favorite way to release stress? #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 29

Open
🥚 In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age.

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🤯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➡️ Proper circulation
➡️ A healthy fertility cycle
➡️ Balanced hormones
➡️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility.

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days.

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now.

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI.

🙂 The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.👇👇
#fertility #fertilityjourney

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 28

Open
How To Eat Healthier For Your Fertility 🍌🍇🍉🥒🥕

Nutrition can make a big difference when you are wanting to prepare for pregnancy, support hormonal health or overcome fertility issues. 

But it can sometimes be hard to start new habits. 

One of my favorite ways to make lasting dietary changes is to focus on what you can add instead of only the things you shouldn’t be eating.

There are 5 specific things I have my clients add to their current diets every day. 

🍌What they found after about 21 days of eating this way, they started to not only crave healthier foods, their body was giving them positive feedback through lighter cycles, better digestion, clearer skin and more energy. ⚡

While eating healthy is something you will need to do for the rest of your life, doing a challenge like this helps to give you a great jump start. 

👇 If you would like to learn more about the Important 5 and start a 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge. Type DIET in the comments below and I will send you the link 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 28

Open
It can be confusing to figure out what is beneficial to eat when experiencing PCOS..... 

Here is how I simplify it.  Type PCOS in the comments if you would like a link to all my PCOS resources. 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 27

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 27

Open
I love hearing others share their experiences on the Fertility Cleanse. 

Mamijanini shares her experiences on her fertility journey over on TT. 

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 26

Open
🥚 In the past, a common belief was that the only factor which determines ovarian and egg health was age. 

Based on new studies, we now know that this may not be true. 🤯

There are many factors that can have an impact on the health of the ovaries and eggs including environmental factors, hormones in the diet, and stress, just to name a few.

In addition, having healthy fertility is based on many additional aspects to consider, including:
➡️ Proper circulation
➡️ A healthy fertility cycle
➡️ Balanced hormones
➡️ Healthy eggs

Egg health is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. 

The health of your eggs (ova) can affect whether or not fertilization and implantation will occur as well as the viability of a pregnancy.

During the cycle of an egg’s journey towards ovulation, there is a window of opportunity, a period of time, when certain factors can affect the health of the eggs that are preparing for ovulation. ⏳

This journey takes about 90 days. 

The steps you take today will impact the health of your eggs 3 months from now. 

That is why I talk so much about taking a MINIMUM of 90 days to prepare for pregnancy or IVF/IUI. 

🙂 The good news is that there are steps you can take to help support the health of your eggs. There is too much info to put into this tiny caption but….

Type EGG if you would like me to send you my Egg Health Checklist that takes you through all of the steps to take.👇👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 26

Open
5 Steps you can take to help support your fertility naturally…. 👇

1️⃣ Cleanse and prepare the body for conception

2️⃣ Nourish the body with fertility supportive foods

3️⃣ Protect and remove any substances that are causing harm

4️⃣ Learn how to fertility chart and read your monthly cycle

5️⃣ Add lifestyle habits that help to support fertility health

🌼 To learn more on how to support your fertility naturally, type STEPS in the comments below to join my free mini-course - 5 Steps To Improve Your Fertility Naturally, where I go into detail on each of the 5 steps. 👇

#naturalfertility #fertilitytips #gettingpregnant #hormonehealth #hormonalhealth

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 25

Open
When a couple is preparing for fertility, it is a good idea for both to cleanse the body of toxins, chemicals, and excess hormones.

The chemicals, pesticides, and toxins in our environment are having a huge impact on male fertility. 

In the last 50 years, sperm counts have been cut in half.

Fertility Cleansing for men is a big step in the right direction. 

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 25

Open
How To Eat Healthier For Your Fertility 🍌🍇🍉🥒🥕

Nutrition can make a big difference when you are wanting to prepare for pregnancy, support hormonal health or overcome fertility issues.

But it can sometimes be hard to start new habits.

One of my favorite ways to make lasting dietary changes is to focus on what you can add instead of only the things you shouldn’t be eating.

There are 5 specific things I have my clients add to their current diets every day.

🍌What they found after about 21 days of eating this way, they started to not only crave healthier foods, their body was giving them positive feedback through lighter cycles, better digestion, clearer skin and more energy. ⚡

While eating healthy is something you will need to do for the rest of your life, doing a challenge like this helps to give you a great jump start.

👇 If you would like to learn more about the Important 5 and start a 21 Day Fertility Diet Challenge. Type DIET in the comments below and I will send you the link 👇

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 24

Open
🚩The good news is that each of these red flags can be fixed through lifestyle upgrades and natural therapies! 

Type ‘STEPS’ in the comments below if you want to learn which steps are most important for fertility and hormone health. Let’s turn those red flags green. 💚

naturalfertilityinfo

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Mar 23

Open
🌱Learn how to balance your HORMONES naturally 👇

Here are 3 practical and affect ways to support your hormonal health.

One of the keys to see the best results is to stay consistent and learn as much about your body as you can.

1️⃣ Use liver supporting herbs

Herbs such as milk thistle have been shown to help the liver in it's natural ability to get rid of toxins and chemicals in the body.

This can make a big difference when it comes to hormone balance.

2️⃣ Do the Fertility Cleanse 1-2x per year

Support the body in it’s natural ability to get rid of excess hormones by doing a fertility cleanse.

3️⃣ Stop using skin care and cleaning products that contain hormone mimicking chemicals

Xenohormones mimic estrogen in the body and can cause imbalance.

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇

#hormonehealth #hormonalhealth #periodhealth #naturalfertility #fertilitytips #fertilitydiet

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 23

Open
Should men do a Fertility Cleanse as well? 💪

A common misconception when it comes to fertility is that if there is an issue it is most likely going to be with the woman. 

This is simply not true. 

Statically fertility issues impact men just as often as women and lifestyle factors can make a big difference. 

The Male Fertility Cleanse Kit helps to support men to cleanse and detox excess hormones, toxins, increase circulation and promote hormone balance. 

👇 Drop MEN in the comments below & I will send you my Male Fertility Checklist with all the details on which herbs, supplements and foods to focus on in addition to cleansing 👇

#malefertilty #naturalfertility #gettingpregnant #fertilitytips

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 22

Open
☕Reproductive Support Tea contains herbs that support, tone, and nourish the female reproductive system while supporting hormone balance.
It’s a soothing and effective fertility tea that provides just the right mixture of beneficial fertility herbs designed to help:

1️⃣ Nourish the uterus*
2️⃣ Support fallopian tube health.*
3️⃣ Help maintain normal ovarian function.*
4️⃣ Encourage normal uterine health.*
5️⃣ Support hormonal balance.

This tea is one of two teas in our Fertility Cleanse Kit. 

👇 To learn more about the Fertility Cleansing type CLEANSE in the comments below and I will send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 👇 

What tea are you drinking today??

naturalfertilityinfo

View

Mar 21

Open
Get ready to prep your body for conception with Fertility Cleansing 101 🌿

The time leading up to pregnancy is crucial in creating a healthy foundation for your growing baby. That's where fertility cleansing comes in!

By cleansing the uterus and liver through the use of herbs, you'll be supporting your body in preparation for conception. 

The Fertility Cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones, while also supporting the uterus in cleansing old stagnant blood and increasing circulation.

Ready to get started? 

👇 Type CLEANSE in the comments below and I'll send you my Guide To Fertility Cleansing. 💪 

#FertilityJourney #ReproductiveHealth #Cleansing"
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