Do you use Vitex?

bethe24

Morning ladies!  I've been reading about Vitex and I am thinking of taking it this cycle.  I haven't ovulated in the 5 cycles that we've been 'trying' (can't really try if you don't ovulate), and I thought this might help.

I did read this on an a website: "People with hormone dependent conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and cancers of the breast, ovaries, uterus or prostate shouldn't take vitex. " 

Did you discuss taking it with your doctor before you started?  My doctor suspects endo but I haven't had a lap to actually dx it.  Have you noticed a positive effect (ovulation, more regular cycles, etc.)?

Edit:  I forgot to ask which brand do you use?

rrcraz7

I spoke with my acupuncturist about this is my second cycle on it

Vitex works on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to help regulate hormones, primarily increasing progesterone. Vitex is not hormone, the side effect is hormonal.

It is also good for reducing prolactin output by the pituitary gland. To much prolactin can have negative results on your leuteal phase.

This was the first cycle I made it to 12dpo without spotting. Usually I start spotting around 6-7 dpo. Immediate results should not be expected and it usually takes 3-6 months of use for the full results to be felt.

That being said, all bottles of Vitex (that I've found) say NOT to take while pregnant. Not even consult your physician but just don't take it. This makes me a bit nervous so I stopped taking it 3-4 days after ovulation, then started with CD1 on Friday.

While you can buy it in any Vitamin World/GNC/ect. nothing I read made me think it should be taken with out speaking to a medical professional. I would not take it upon myself to diagnose a hormone issue and self medicate with herbs.

rrcraz7

OHH and I take Solaray