What is Clomiphene Citrate Challenge Test (CCCT)?
The CCCT is a commonly used test that is over 95% accurate in predicting failure to have a successful pregnancy.
How is the CCCT performed?
A blood test is taken on the 2nd or 3rd day of your menstrual period. This will measure FSH and estradiol. On day 5 of your menstrual period you will take 2 pills (100 mg) of clomiphene citrate at the same time, anytime of the day. You will take these 2 pills each day for 5 days (days 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 of your menstrual period). On day 10, the day after your last pills, you will go to the laboratory and have another FSH blood test taken.
What do the results mean?
If any of the three blood tests are abnormal, the whole test is considered abnormal. An abnormal test is very good at predicting a low chance of becoming pregnant using your own eggs. With any bad test result, the diagnosis changes from unexplained infertility to an egg problem- diminished ovarian reserve for reproduction. If all three test results are normal, it does not mean that you should or will get pregnant since there are many factors which have to work together to achieve a successful pregnancy.
Here is a good article that talks more about FSH, ovarian reserve and egg quality. Good Eggs, FSH levels and Ovarian Reserve: The Egg Factor by David Sable M.D.
Who should take a CCCT?
For couples with unexplained infertility, a CCCT is used as a screening test. If you get a bad result, this means your eggs are unlikely to work for a successful pregnancy and you will not be encouraged to pursue fertility using your own eggs.
What are my options with a bad result on my CCCT?
Egg donation and adoption.
What are the risks with a CCCT?
About half of women taking clomiphene citrate will experience temporary hot flushes. Also some women will experience a few days of mood change. For a more extensive discussion of side effects, please refer to the information sheet on Clomiphene Citrate.