The thickness of the uterine lining is a critical factor in the success of conception. Under normal circumstances, the uterine lining, in response to estrogen that is produced in the body, grows about one to two centimeters every other day. Ideally, when the time comes for ovulation, the endometrium is about eight millimeters thick, providing a safe and suitable home for implantation of the fertilized egg. If the uterine lining fails to develop properly, the chance of the fertilized egg becoming implanted successfully is threatened.

Several factors can affect the growth of the uterine lining. Infection, scarring from D&Cs, low estrogen levels, poor uterine blood supply, or endometrial antibodies may all have an impact. Another factor in poor growth of the uterine lining is the use of Clomid.

What Clomid Does

Clomid influences four hormones that affect ovulation: GnRH, FSH, LH, and estradiol. By tricking the body into acting as though estrogen levels are low, it stimulates the production of GnRH (gonadotropin releasing hormone) within the hypothalamus. This, in turn, stimulates the pituitary gland to increase production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The result is ovulation, with the hope of a fertilized egg and pregnancy. Clomid has been the first choice for infertility treatments since it was clinically introduced in 1967.

Since Clomid is an antiestrogen, using it can cause a blockage in the stimulation of estrogen on the endometrium (lining of the uterus). Clomid has two parts or isomers. Upon cessation of taking the drug, one of the isomers leaves the body within a week while the other one remains, acting as an anti-estrogen, for up to six weeks. When Clomid is used for more than three months in a row, the anti-estrogen isomer build-up causes thinning of the uterine lining. In this way, Clomid acts as a type of contraceptive, regardless of ovarian response. In order to eliminate all of the antiestrogen isomer from the system, it is important to discontinue use of Clomid for at least six weeks.

Viagra - More Than It Appears To Be

There does appear to be some help available in the issue of thinning uterine lining and it comes in the form of Viagra. Dr. Geoffrey Sher, MD, Executive Medical director and co-founder of SIRM, and an internationally renowned expert in the field of Assisted Reproductive Therapy, says, "Viagra improves blood flow to the uterine lining and thereby improves estrogen delivery." Viagra, administered vaginally, has no side effects, is absorbed locally, and reaches the uterus in high concentrations. It works by encouraging the releasing of nitric oxide in the uterus, which improves blood flow. Since the Viagra is gone in 12 hours, there is no further release of nitric oxide. However, remnants of nitric oxide may be harmful to the development of the embryo so nitro-glycerine is discontinued and the vagina is irrigated to remove all traces of the suppository a week before blastocyst transfer (planting of the fertilized egg).

Viagra has been shown to have a serious female application and may help with ovulation and thinning uterine lining.

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