The Natural Fertility Community

Hi,

I have had no period now for 5 months. I came off the pill in May. I started taking the pill when I was 16, had a couple of short breaks but have pretty much taken it since now. I am now 27. I had an eating disorder too between the ages of 20 and 22 where my periods stopped.

For the past 2 months I have done a gut, liver and oestrogen cleanse through a naturopath. I am now taking dong quai, red raspberry, vitex, burdoch and drinking dandelion tea. I am also tracking my temperature every morning. It seems that my temperature goes up for a couple of days (indicating possible ovualtion) and then goes straight back down again...my temp is about 35.8 - 36.0 so a bit on the low side.

None of the herbs seem to be working. I'd like to start trying for a baby but need to obviously get a period first! Is it time to see a gynacologist?

Any support you can provide would be appreciated. Thanks.

Hi nlbaker1,

Often when we want so badly to become pregnant and have a child we become impatient. The best thing to remember when embarking on any herbal plan is that herbs take time to be effective. I don't think you have been taking any of these herbs for a long enough period of time. 3-6 months would be best.

Since you are already working with a Naturopath it may be confusing to you if we recommend something different. I don't know what your Naturopath has recommended for dosage amounts, that information would be helpful.

Vitex and Dong Quai are two of the best herbs for bringing about menstruation. Below are our recommended dosages for each.

Vitex: Capsules: 1,000mg a day is the suggested amount to use. Take vitex capsules all month long except during menstruation.

Tincture: Take 10-15 drops of vitex extract, taken 2-3 times a day all month long except during menstruation.

However, unlike powerful hormone drugs, vitex works slowly to normalize the body. Maximum benefits are often achieved after 6-12 cycles with vitex.

Dong Quai: Dong Quai Capsules, 2 caps =1040mg; take 2 caps 2x's a day

All the Best,

Dalene

Hi Dalene,

I really appreciate your advice thank you. My naturopath actually didn't tell me about vitex and dong quai, I just did some research and picked them myself. Turns out I was taking too low a dosage going by your recommendation so I will try your suggested amount, thanks.

You are right...I probably am being impatient. I will persevere with the herbs for another few months and take things from there.

When should I start thinking about going to a gynacologist? I'm just worried that not having a period is harming my body.

Regards,

Nicola

Hi nlbaker1,

Going to a gynecologist for regular check-ups is always a good idea, especially if you are concerned about your health. Remember that most Gynecologists that are Medical Doctors (MD) will almost always want to try and solve the problem with medications, not natural means. I don't know what state you live in, but in Oregon I was seeing a Naturaopathic Doctor that was also a licensed Gynocologist. This helped me greatly because she prescribed natural methods first ie, herbs, supplements, massage, chiropractic, ect.

Seeing a gynecologist may ease your worries.

Best Wishes,

Dalene