High FSH

I am 32 years old and have recently been told by my OB that because of my high FSH levels (10.2 on day 3 and 17.7 on day 10) that I need stronger meds than Clomid (which I have taken for 2 rounds).  I am going to see an RE next week.  I read in another message that the days you take Clomid can make a difference.  My OB told me to take it days 3-7, but I have been reading it should be taken 5-9.  Any input would be great.  I am really trying to stay positive and not lose hope.

[baby1234]

Technically, your fsh is elevated because your starting fsh was already over 10. BUT, that does not mean you will not get pregnant. Find a RE who is fsh friendly because at this point, your age trumps the fsh number. Fsh is a number that can indicate egg quantity, not quality. Don't forget that!

I know from experience. Fsh was 13 at 33. Had twins at 35 (after two miscarriages, 3 iuis, and 3 ivfs). It can happen. Don't lose hope!

[Julie1615]

Hi there! I was soooo heartened to read your response. I'm 30 and my latest day 3 blood work resulted in an FSH level of 9. I have had this test done twise previously and it was 6.7 and 6 respectively. I also have an elevated E2 level (69-87), the latest level being 71. My first RE said that Donor Eggs was my only hope after 3 failed IUIs and my first failed IVF attempt last Dec. You cannot believe how devastated me and DH were upon hearing that:( It was like being bludgeoned with a rock.

I have since changed REs in the hopes that another IVF cycle might help us. Thank you sooo much for the hope baby1234!!!

Best,
Julie

[marz27]

Thank you so much for your reply!  It is so helpful to read success stories.  I am going to have my first consult with my RE this week and am keeping my fingers crossed that she is FSH friendly :-)

Marisa

[vergovana]

yes clomid is taken day 3-7 not 5-9 but i am just wondering why u r taking stimulator&your FSH is high as FSH is the hormone stimulating ovulation then how it comes?

[babyalive]

Well there are several different theories and methods for taking Clomid, some take it days 3 - 7, 5 - 9, 6 - 10, 4 - 8 etc.  It just all depends on your dr. and his/her protocol preference.  It seems to make little difference in terms of the days you take it and fertility.  However, and a BIG however, when you are taking Clomid for the CCT (Clomid Challenge Test) which is the test your dr. did to determine how your body is responding to the Clomid, it needs to be taken on days 5 - 10.    When Clomid is taken days 3 - 7, then your FSH is going to be much higher on cd 10 because the goal of Clomid is to raise you FSH to get your body to produce more follicles.   I would then look at your cd 3 FSH test to determine your true level.  A level of 10 isn't terrible.  It's a little high, but very manageable. Your chances of conceiving are pretty good.  Here is a good web site regarding FSH.

www.advancedfertility.com

[G_S]

I am reading this book about the biological clock, and it says that an elevated FSH (greater than 10) is a sign of declining ovarian reserve...so if you plan to get pregnant, you should get aggressive and consult a RE asap...they will let you know of the best options for you

[jenandjon]

Just an FYI on Clomid and different days.  I've heard that 5-9 is for women who are having trouble ovulating, while 3-7 is more for women who are showing signs of o but not strong o or follicles aren't big enough.  My RE has me starting on 100mg cd 1-5 for 3 months starting in March.  I do have signs of o'ing on my own, but not strong o.

[jzyj]

I did 3 IUI with Clomid and my NP always put me on CD5~CD9. I alway Oed on my own and I responded very well with 50mg Clomid (4 mature follicles). I don't know what difference does it make if you start on CD3 or CD 4/CD5 though. and I agree FSH tells you the quantity, not the quality of your egg. so don't be too discouraged by the number. good luck!