Short communication

Abstract

We compared the gonadotrophin and oestradiol responses to clomiphene citrate (CC) in women aged 18-25 versus 35-40 years. Despite similar baseline hormone concentrations and the attainment of similar concentrations of the E and Z isomers of clomiphene, higher follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations were observed in the older women, possibly indicative of their ageing ovaries. Furthermore, diminished oestradiol responses occurred in a subgroup of women showing FSH hyper-responsiveness to CC. These preliminary results support the concept that the hormonal response to CC may be an indicator of approaching perimenopause.