Hi Hethir, I have been taking vitex for 3 weeks now and I am on day 35 of my cycle, am I supposed to stop taking the vitex on a certain day so my period will start. I did hpt it was negative.
There are two schools of thought on how to take Vitex. Most herbalists say that you can take it every day for up to 18 months, unless you get pregnant. Some other sources say to take it for two weeks before ovulation than stop, just incase you are pregnant.
With my clients I usually suggest taking it all month long except while you are menstruating.
Vitex does not contain any hormones in it yet acts by balancing the hormonal system. I personally take it daily (luteal phase imbalance), when I find out that I am pregnant I will stop.
As for your cycle being 35 days, if it was not normally that long it may be a sign that the vitex is working to balance things out. Sometimes when the body is healing it will seem a little more out of whack for a very short time and than comes back into balance.
Vitex and progesterone can be taken at the same time (remember progesterone is take only after ovulation until menses or if you become pregnant at least for the first three months.)
You can learn more about vitex for fertility here.
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I have been using Vitex since April due to my irregular periods. Before April my last period was in Dec 2010. When i started Vitex, my period came in June and lasted about nine days. i was taking vitex while i was on my period (did not know any better) so i am not sure if that was the reason my period prolonged. it usually last 4 to 5 days. i haven’t had a ‘period’ since then, but i have been spotting with brownish and bloodlike discharges for over two weeks now. sometimes it seems like i am about to have a period because my uterine lining sheds with the discharge or so i think. i don’t know if it as a result of the vitex i am taking, if it is trying to regulate it. i was thinking about stopping the vitex for a while, but after reading the posts i guess i should still stick with it for a while. i just had my pap smear done and i am still waiting for the result. my doctor just prescribed provera, but i am very skeptical about prescription meds and i try to avoid them. i will be trying to conceive by the end of this year and i really don’t want any delay.
Hi Sheila,
It sounds like the Vitex is creating some results, though they may not be exactly what you are wanting. Vitex takes patience and consistency of use. I can take many months to achieve desired results. Be sure that you do not use Provera and Vitex at the same time. We do not recommend combining herbs for fertility with fertility medications. It is not going to hurt you to use Vitex during your period, we just feel it is best to let your body naturally cleanse and work on its own during the female bleeding time. Some herbalists feel it is fine to use Vitex during the female bleeding time.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi there,
I started taking vitex a couple of months ago to normalize my cycle because they have been irregular since stopping birth control. Since this time both the periods I have had have been shorter, good
but early 
giving me a short luteal phase, this month of 9 days. Should I stop vitex. I really really want to be pregnant so I dont want to waste time if this is what vitex does to me! I have never had a luteal phase defect before 
please help!
Thank you for responding to my email. I really appreciate your thoughts on this. So, i decided to stop taking Vitex for three days just to see if my spotting would stop. it did for those three days. However, since i still want to continue with it, i started taking vitex again after the three days. i take just one capsule (400 mg). My spotting has started back again. I really don’t understand why. Do you think it is safe for me to continue with it? My pap smear result came out as normal. Thanks.
Hello
My partner & I are trying to get pregnant and after reading lots of comments on serveral different forums it has got me thinking!!
Is it safe to use Vitex combined with Elevit ?
I had very irregular periods before going on the pill 10 years ago and this returned since stopping the pill (9 months ago now).
Before I started taking Vitex I could go almost 3 months with no period.
I have seen a Gyno & have had all of the tests done and I am ‘normal’, hormone levels are all ok.
Gyno could only prescribe Clomid but I do not want to go there unless all else fails!!
Since taking vitex it took just under 3 months before I got a period which was all normal, but then after just 16 days I got another period which has lasted another 4 – 5 days.
I am taking vitex everyday even during my period.
Should I continue using vitex and hope that my cycle will sort itself out and get into some sort of new routine?Does all this sound normal?
Please help – any advice would be appreciated at this point.
Thank you!
Myz
Hi Anna,
You could try using it only in the first half of your cycle, prior to ovulation to see if that changes anything, or you continue on with the same time and dosage. I often see women give up on Vitex after only a few months because they feel it is not working for them. What I found is that Vitex works best when used consistently for at least 6-12 months, sometimes longer. This herb works slowly over time. It is always best to listen to your body. If you truly feel it is not working for you, you could discontinue using it and see how your body functions on its own.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Sheila,
You know I am not sure what may be going on. It would be best to chart your cycle to see if you are in fact ovulating. It may be time to stop the Vitex and see how your body does on its own. The idea is to use herbs to support natural functions of the body, not to become dependent on them. Taking a break for a few cycles may help you to determine if your body still needs additional support from herbs or not. Are you doing other supportive therapies for your body, including eating a nutrient rich diet and regular exercise? This format is difficult for me to follow threads, if you have additional comments please submit a formal question here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/contact-us
Warmly,
Dalene
Hello..
I’ve been taking Vitex since the end of June for irregular long cycles. This worked almost immediately. The past 2 months, my cycles have been regular 29 days. I ovulated on CD15 in both months. However, this third month, I am now 3 days late on ovulating. Could this be caused by taking too much Vitex? I used to take 3-400mg capsules daily. Ever since I decreased to 2 capsules, is when I noticed this. I take these pills daily. I’ve read to take 2-3 capsules daily for 8-12 wks then decrease to one capsule daily.
I’m at a loss on what to do. Should I stop taking this herb? This is devistating to me since I am trying to conceive. I do know that this herb can mess with your cycles if you don’t need to use it. I’m wondering if it’s messing up my cycles? Any input or thoughts would be great… Thanks!
Hi Myz,
If Elevit is just a prenatal vitamin supplement, then yes, it is safe to use with Vitex.
Vitex takes between 6-12 months of consistent use to help regulate the menstrual cycle. It sounds like you may need to keep at it for it to aid your body in regulating the length of the cycle. It is great that you are getting a cycle again! With Vitex, the first few cycles are usually different than a typical cycle, the timing may be off. This should regulate over time.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Lisa,
The decrease in dosage may have affected ovulation date. In my personal experience, it is best to use a consistent dosage, rather than decrease it with Vitex. I am not sure where you read to decrease it, but it may be best to keep at a consistent dosage for a longer period of time.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi, i started taking vitex on saturday and received my cycle on monday. Im not sure if im supposed to take vitex during my cycle or wait until my cycle stops to start back on vitex. I have been ttc for almost 5 yrs and no results. I do believe that this product will work because I’m very irregular and the moment i started taking vitex, a couple days later my cycle came on. Any feedback and suggestions?
Hi,
I started Vitex a month and half ago with dong quai, my period is usually 26 days and it was on time last month, and the flow was for 4 days. I stopped the dong quai and continued the vitex but my period came at day 24 this month with very scanty flow and slow start. I am on day two now and its usually the day that i have heavy flow but the flow has been very scanty. Is this how vitex works. I am about to start the fertility cleanse ( I have bought it already). But I don’t know exactly when to start. I will also like to add that I was taking vitex to reduce my FSH levels also had hot flashes (I’m 33). My periods have been regular except for this last one that has very scanty flow. Is this vitex doing its job?
Hi Nina,
We suggest that Vitex not be used during the female bleeding time. To learn more about the best natural remedies for irregular menstrual cycle I urge you to read our article at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/how-to-get-your-period-back.html
Learning to chart your cycle will also help to determine if you are ovulating or not, as well as the best times to take herbs and supplements.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
I just started taking vitex on day 29. I figured I’d stop when my period came, which I figured would be that day or day 30. It’s now day 32 & no period. I spotted a little this evening & I hope it means my period is coming. Soon.
I’m scheduled for a hysteroscopy this Friday to remove a uterine polyp & fibroid. I’m usually super regular with a 26-29 day cycle. I last did an IUI on Aug. 13. My Aug. 26 bHCG bloodtest was negative for pregnancy.
I’m a little nervous cause of my pending surgery. I took a 400mg Vitex earlier this morning but stopped taking any more because I was worried about having my cycle completely thrown off. It’ll be great if my period arrives in time for Fri’s hysteroscopy because I have a stenotic cervix so it’ll help to have my cervix naturally dilated with the period. But my doctor also prescribed cytotec which I’m supposed to vaginally insert 2 pills the night before & 2 the morning of surgery.
The other thing I introduced my body to this past 2 weeks has been the castor oil packs. I stopped doing that as of today also. Anyway, any suggestions about the vitex / castor oil combo would be appreciated. I know I shouldn’t be doing either when my period arrives. That’s why I kept doing it beyond day 29 cause I figured I’d do it till it arrived.
I’ve been trying to get pregnant for the last 1.5 yrs. I plan to still do the vitex / castor oil combo once my period is done. But can I do the castor oil pack even if my belly is stapled (in the event the doctor does a laprascopy)? They attempted this procedure before & they bandaged up the area when I had staples in my ovary/belly button area. Is it safe for me to continue vitex / castor oil combo after surgery?
Hi Tasha,
Women usually find that when beginning Vitex, their menstrual cycle is off at first. This may happen for the first few cycles. The most important thing to remember is that Vitex take time to be effective. Be patient. It may be worrisome to have your cycle length and flow be different, but it is a sign that your body is responding to the Vitex. Vitex has been shown to produce the best results after 6-12 months of consistent use. It sounds like you were having some good results with the Dong Quai, so that may be something to think about after the Fertility Cleanse is over. Dong Quai may be best used for 3-6 months consistently.
Best wishes,
Dalene
Hi,
I had an ectopic preg in May which was terminated with the meth. drug. I got a period about 3 wks later and since then no period. no spotting. Pls note that I had irregular periods prior to the pregnancy and often go mths at a time w/o a period. I started taking vitex and dong quai three days ago, one pill of each daily in attempts to regulate period, regulate ovulation since im ttc.
Any advice? should I up the dosage of both vitex and dong quai?
Also too, I take my one-a-day vitamins and B complex.
i have pcos and no periods for three months. i am ttc. i started vitex 400mg 2 cap in the morning and 2cap in the evening.
i started on the 2nd day of my cycle. now i am due on 3rd oct but no signs. Shall i stop it to have periods or wait and have preg test? or wait for my cycle?
Hi Emma,
It is best to begin Vitex after the menstrual bleeding time is over. It may be confusing for your body to begin it in the end of a cycle. I am not sure why you chose to do this, when you typically begin bleeding the next day? Perhaps you were hoping it would bring on your bleeding time, not sure?! Taking only 400mg of vitex should not have that much of an effect on your cycle. Stop using the vitex. I am sorry I am just now getting to this blog post. You must have already gone through your procedure. Never use fertility herbs with cytotec. As far as beginning the Castor Oil packs and vitex after your surgery; do not do Castor Oil packs until after your wounds have healed. Also do not begin vitex until you are completely off of any kind of medications, let your body heal naturally on its own. Supportive healing remedies like homeopathic arnica may be something to look into.
Vitex has been show to be effective when used from after the bleeding time, all month long up to the next bleeding time. Castor Oil packs are best used from after the bleeding time is over, up to ovulation and not after in case of pregnancy.
I hope your procedure went well, and you are healing!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Sam,
I am sorry to hear about your ectopic pregnancy and loss! Because I don’t know the dosage of the vitex and Dong quai products you are using it is hard to say if you are taking a high enough dosage.
General Dosage for Vitex:
Capsules: 1,000mg a day is the suggested amount to use. For best results use vitex capsules all month long except during menstruation.
Tincture: Suggested usage is 10-15 drops of vitex extract, 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 is suggested at up to 3100mg a day. This herb may be best taken for 3-6 months.
The multivitamin and b6 are a good start! If you have had years of irregular cycles, you may want to get some hormone testing done by your doctor. This may help you to determine what is going on, and what you can do about it.
Learn causes of ectopic pregnancy, and healing naturally from the physical and emotion effects here:http://natural-fertility-info.com/ectopic-pregnancy.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Sara,
Vitex takes many months to be effective, typically 6-12 months. If you do not normally have a menstrual cycle, it may take many cycles of consistent use to aid your body in bringing on a cycle. Vitex is best taken all month long, except during the female menstrual period. You do not need to stop and start it to bring on a cycle. An important factor in getting your cycle to regulate would be to include a PCOS specific diet and regular exercise. Without these vitex cannot be as effective.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi
This is my last attempt at trying to get pregnant. This is my first time posting, I need help, I was diagnoised with LPD, I have had 1 miscarriage, and 1 blight ovum. from my BBT, I have a 25 day cycle and a LPD of 6 days. I am currently taking 1 b6(100 Mg) 2 vitex (800 mg), 3 royal jelly (1500 mg). and red raspberry leaf of (480 mg), i have been doing this for 2 months. should I increase my dose?
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hello,
My cycle is between 28-32 days and luteal phase is 8-10 days (based on 6 cycles). I have been taking a pregnancy multi-vitamin the whole time. This cycle I am also taking B multi-vits (includes 60mg B6) and 1000mg Vitex to try increase the length of my luteal phase. I’m also taking 30ml guaifensin syrup (with no other active ingredients), drinking lots of water and drinking 2 cups of green tea/day to increase my cervical fluid because it’s pretty scant.
Currently at CD14 (usually expect Ov around CD21-23) and have no sign that Ov is getting close and cervical fluid basically non-existent. Have heard that perhaps next cycle I should not take Vitex until after Ov (from then up until menses). What do you think? And any suggestions for what’s happening this cycle?
Hello,
I have not had a confirmed pregnancy for 5 years, however suspect that i have had two very early miscarriages in the past. Just yesterday my very early pregnancy was confirmed with HCG at 25 and Progesterone at 16. This cycle I drank detox tea for the first half, along with a Omega 3-6-9 that contained evening primrose oil as one of the ingredients. I confirmed ovulation and two days after the positive OPK I began 400mg of Vitex at 7am and again at 7pm. My question is this, now that my pregnancy is confirmed, my Dr. wants me to begin Prometrium twice daily because they say that my progesterone should be minimally 20. I don’t know whether I should stop the Vitex altogether or ween myself off. I am afraid that a slight drop in progesterone will cause a miscarriage. If you have any recommendations I would really appreciate it. My Dr. knows nothing of Vitex. Thanks so much. Lisa
Is it safe to take Vitex with Synthroid? I am trying to get my hormones to balance out as I have symptoms of PMDD and really bad PMS. I just started taking Vitex and I just want to make sure I am doing this right. Thank you
Hi almost 41,
Thank you for being brave and posting your questions. I think your dosages look good, and in the normal range for everything you are taking. With natural remedies, it really takes a lot of patience and commitment to see positive results! Honestly, vitex takes at least 6 months to be really effective. I know for women over 40 this may seem like forever, but there is no way to rush how vitex works. You can learn additional ways to to lengthen the luteal phase at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/luteal-phase-defect.html
I think our recurrent miscarriages page may also help to guide you to learn ways to sustain a pregnancy, please read that here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/preventing-miscarriage
I wish you the best and hope you go on to have a successful pregnancy!
Dalene
Hi I have not had my period since March of 2011. I had a miscarriage and now 7 months later still no period. So I started taking vitex to help get my body back in order. Since I get my period only 3-4 times a year. But I was wondering can I take prenatal vitamins with vitex?
Hi,
I just turned 40 and am trying to become pregnant with my second child. Six months after I stopped breastfeeding my son (six months after he was born), my periods would start on the same day each month and still do, and last til day three,then I would stop bleeding for two days and then start spotting for 3 to 4 days. I had a D & C and everything was fine. I did find out 2 years postpartum I have Hashimotos Thyroiditis and I am taking Armour Thyroid (1 grain). I just started taking Vitex as I am hoping to have a “normal” period. I don’t think I have been ovulating for quite some time…extremely low libido, no discharge, low body temp. Any suggestions would be helpful.
Thank you.
Kind regards,
Lori
Hi Becky,
Many women find that for the first few months of using Vitex, their cycles are different, that includes O date. This may be extremely frustrating and confusing, but it is actually a sign your body is working to adjust to the Vitex. Many women get discouraged and give up too soon on Vitex because of this. Vitex takes many months (6-12) to be effective. Benefits with Vitex cannot be achieved if the person is not consistent in use, over many months.
Be patient!
Blessings!
Dalene
Hi Lisa,
Congratulations on your pregnancy! It may be best to wean off of the vitex over 2 weeks. Taking less and less each day. But before choosing to do that, it may be best to already be boosting your progesterone levels, this will insure you do not have a sudden drop in progesterone. Your doctor will be monitoring your hormone levels, so do not worry about going about this blindly. Here is some information about Vitex use in pregnancy (first trimester):
It is always best to wean off of Vitex, rather than stop suddenly.
Best Wishes for your pregnancy, may this be the one!
Dalene
Hi Natalie,
There are no know contraindications with Vitex and thyroid medications, but it would be best to get the approval of your doctor before combining them.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
hi
im a 26 year old woman and diognosed with PCOS, my periods are very irregular and usually it takes a long time for me to have one. I have been ttc for about 2 years, also i had one iui but no result. so i desided to give up all those drugs and started to take vitex tincture as soon as my menstrual bleeding ( lasted for 9 days) finished on october 30, 40 drops daily. now its 18 days since im taking it.
but the problem is that since last week i m feeling sore, tender boobs esp. nipples when i touch them. i also have fibro-cystic breasts sometimes with occasional pains. but i never had tender nipples up to now except when i inject hcg for my iui. i wanna know is it because of my fibro cystic breasts or what? do you reccomend me continue taking it or not? pls help me
thanx alot
I have been having very spaced out menstral cycles since high school. I am now 21. I have been to a doctor and was put on birth control to get my cycles back on track. When I was put on birth control I had irregularly long and HEAVY menstral cycles. To be honest heavy doesnt even define how bad they were. Also, before the birth control I was tested for edometrosis (I probably spelled that wrong) because a doctor in the ER thought I had it. I took it upon myself to stop the birth control due to this horrible periods. I had a period last month its my first in a couple of months. I want to start taking Vitex. And I want to get all that on track so me and my soon to be husband can conceive.. Do you think it would work for me?
Thanks,
Amanda
Hi Oleta,
Yes, multivitamins and prenatal vitamins are safe to use with Vitex.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Lori,
I am not sure why you chose to get a D&C, so not exactly clear why you posted that part of the comment. Fertility Enzyme Therapy has been found to be helpful for autoimmune related fertility issues, which Hashimoto’s is. So that may be something to research more. Have you had your hormone levels tested? Low libido, low body temp and low cervical mucous are signs of low progesterone, so that may be something to research as well. If you have not had hormone testing, it would be good to talk to your doctor about this, and your desire to try a more natural approach to healing.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi nana,
This is completely normal when first beginning Vitex. When you are first introducing progesterone back into the body after an extended period of progesterone deficiency, the estrogen receptor sites ‘wake up’ (are stimulated), enhancing the action of estrogen for a short period of time. This is acutally a sign that the progesterone is actually working, even though at the beginning it can exacerbate estrogen dominance symptoms such as breast tenderness and swelling, spotting, fluid retention, dizziness, hot flashes, fatigue, headaches and nausea. This is very commend, as vitex indirectly boosts progesterone production in the body. After a couple cycles this should go away, as the body normalizes and hormone levels begin to balance.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Amanda,
Vitex may be good, though based on the information you have provided I cannot be sure. It would be best to know if you do in fact have endometriosis, before beginning to try and conceive. Endometriosis can effect your chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy. You can learn more about endometriosis here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/endometriosis
Your body may need some support since coming off of the birth control. When we use these birth control methods they are releasing hormones in our bodies at times they naturally would not, disrupting the menstrual cycle. The body goes through a lot of confusion and stress when coming off of birth control. Be patient with your body, give it time to adjust to hormonal shifts that have to take place. You can learn more about how to get your cycle to regulate after coming off of birth control by reading our article How to Balance Hormones After Birth Control.
If you feel completely lost, you may want to consider a consultation.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi! I am 39 years old and have gone through years of fertilitity treatments IUI, IVF etc. I have been off of all infertility treatment for a year now and have given up because of my age and the cost. I still take Pregnancy Prep (2 Capsules daily), and Vitex. About a month ago I went from taking one 400 mg. Vitex to two. About the middle of the month I ran out of Vitex and only could find the 500 mg. pills so I changed to 2 pills so I am now taking 1,000 mg of Vitex. The reason I started taking two pills was to help with the hot flashes and night sweats and to try to stabilize my moods. I also started walking 4 miles a day this last month. My periods have been anywhere from 27 days to 30 and never late. This month I am 2 days late and have taken 3 HPT’s from the dollar store and they are all negative. Could my period be off because of the Vitex or am I going through Menopause. On my Mom’s side her and her sister were through Menopause in early 40′s. I was excited when I didn’t start thinking it may be a blessing. Now I am just really confused as to what my body is doing. Please give me some in put.
Hi Julie,
It could either be the increase in Vitex, or it could be the beginning of menopause, there is no real way for me to know for sure. Because of your family history of menopause at an earlier age than most women, it may be that you might experience early menopause as well. One thing that stands out is that you have increased your dosage of Vitex. Pregnancy Prep also contains Vitex, so it may be that you taking too much Vitex in combination with Pregnancy Prep. You may want to consider lowering the Vitex dose. You also began walking a lot, any time there is an increase in physical activity, this may affect the menstrual cycle as well. It could just be that your body is adjusting to these new changes, but again, there is no real way for me to know. Start by first considering adjusting your dosage of Vitex, that may give you your answer.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
I am 32 years old and married. My husband and I have been trying to conceive for over 2 years now. I went to the Dr he told me i had pcos. I had irregular periods ranging from 2-3 months. All my tests was normal. I got on clomid 50 mg nothing happen so I didn’t go back to get a higher dose. Sept 26 I started don quai 565mg a day for a week and stopped then Oct.3rd I started taking vitex 400mg twice a day and got my period Oct.11th and I ovulated so after my period I started don quai 1 a day and vitex twice a day all in one day so now i’m just waiting to see if i will have a period for nov. Hoping for the best
Hello,
I am 25 years old with very irregular periods. I have not gotten my period since May 2011 and in Mid October 2011 I decided to just take vitex (after doing a lot of research). I have gone to fertility doctors and all my test came out fine, they said the only thing wrong was that my body is not ovulating (they have prescribed metformin and clomid)…I tried metformin but hated the stomach related problem it caused me so i stopped it after about 3 weeks into the treatment. Again they said the only thing they see as the “problem” was my body is not sending my “brain” a message to ovulate. Is vitex the right thing to be taking to help my body “fix” this problem what else can I take along with vitex to help in this process?
Hi Keiadra,
Thank you for sharing your experience! How great that you ovulated!
Hoping for the best with you!
Dalene
Hi Darlene,
I wonder if you could clear up a couple of questions I have. I hope I have posted in the correct section.
I am 42 years old and my boyfriend is 31. I have been charting my monthly cycle since August and my periods appear to be fairly regular (between 24-27 days). I have been ovulating between days 9-11 and usually for 2 days. This month though my cycle was 24 days and I ovulated for only one day (8th day), which I assume is still fine.
I am currently taking the following supplements:-
1200mg (due to capsule size) Vitex – every day except during menstruation
1500mg EPO – every day except between ovulation and menstruation
100mg Royal Jelly – every day
400mg Folic Acid – every day
300mg Feverfew – every day (due to migraines)
I do suffer more with heavy periods and have a history of Endometriosis (though not severe at at my last examination, there was no scar tissue)
Is the above correct? Would any of the above work against each other?
I know I need to be patient, but I am worried due to my age. I am fairly healthy (gave up smoking 6 months ago, dont drink any alcohol, slightly overweight but not too much and my days are moderately active).
Sorry this is so long winded, but any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks,
Ali
Hello I’m 32 years old and I’ve been taking vitex since Oct 26 2011 today is my 10th day taking it. Im doing 2 400mg a day. My question is what can i expect from taking this pill? I know i’ve been very emotional lately i usually start my period around this time and i have no symptoms should i worry about this or just continue taking vitex? I need your help!! thank you
Hi JakesMom,
Vitex is an herb that is specific for aiding the communication for the entire hormonal feed back loop. Another key part of the communication to think about is your egg health. Healthy eggs are needed for proper communication and most importantly ovulation! Nourishing the endocrine system is also important! The main function of the endocrine system is to serve as our body’s message center. Hormones deliver messages, the endocrine system coordinates hormones. Two supplements that really nourish the endocrine system are Maca and Royal Jelly. Both of these supplements are part of our Improve Egg Health Program. Both have been shown safe to combine with Vitex.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Alison,
Everything you are doing sounds good. I would definitely say that diet and exercise are the most important changes you can make! The changes you have already made sound great, I commend you for quitting smoking! Herbs and supplements are not meant to be a substitute for dietary and lifestyle changes! Consider how a multivitamin may benefit your health!
Be sure that you having sexual intercourse on the correct days. So for you it would be day 7-12. Your last cycle seems a bit short and you ovulated quite early. Keep charting and see if this happens again. Vitex is not always the best choice for women with regular cycles and regular ovulation, it may throw a regular cycle off, so that would be something to consider. Women over 40 need to focus on improving egg health, uterine health and sustaining hormonal balance!
None of the supplements you are taking are known to counteract one another, they actually have been shown safe for combination.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Joanna,
We feel that maximum dosage for Vitex is 1200mg a day, you are taking twice that. This may potentially cause hormonal imbalance. More is not always best, nor does in equal quicker results. It is best to stay within the suggested daily dosage which is 800-1200mg a day. Taking too much vitex can cause formication, where it feels like ants are crawling under your skin.
Please consider lowering your dosage.
Dalene
I’m a 34 year old woman whose always had irregular periods. I’ve been on 800mg of Vitex for four months and sometimes my ovaries feel very sore and inflamed on it. My breasts are swollen and I’m highly emotional. I’m not pregnant but I am now on my 39th day of my cycle and no period in sight. Perhaps vitex is not right for me? is the sore, inflamed feeling normal? I started out on 3 400mg pills a day and my cycle was 38 days. My ovaries started to feel very sore to the point of waking me up at night. I lowered my dose and I had a 33 day cycle. I’m still on the 800mg and am now on the 39th day of my cycle with no period. My breasts are sore, I’m broken out, I feel very premenstrual but no cramps or bleeding. Just emotional with sore breasts, water rentention and no period. I know I’m not pregnant so is all of this normal or should I stop taking the vitex? I’m also doing 250mg of Evening Primrose Oil a day. I also take synthroid for an under active thyroid.
Update- Well I did get my period finally on the 40th day of my cycle. I’ve finally leveled out emotionally and have decided to not use vitex during my period. I have read many sites and they are all so confusing on when to take vitex. Some say all through your cycle and others say not to take it during your period. Should I continue to take it during my period or take that break then when I stop bleeding, go back to taking the 800 mg a day plus my 250 mg of Evening Primrose Oil?
Thank you,
Erika
I am trying to conceive and I am thinking of taking Vitex, Dong Quai & Primrose together. How long should I take them and what duration?
Hi Erika,
Thanks for the update, I am glad you finally got your period! We feel it is best to use Vitex all month long, stopping during your bleeding time. This allows the body to naturally cleanse on its own and refresh receptor sites. Preparing for the next cycle. Sore breasts and the other symptoms you experienced are typical for the first few cycles after beginning vitex, this is normal, though it can be worrisome. As I have said before many times, Vitex take patience and consistency over time! It sounds like your body is beginning to respond well through your consistency with this herb. I feel you have answered your own question through your update. It is up to you to decide to use it during your bleeding time or not, based on the information I have provided you about why we feel it is best to stop vitex during menses.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Heather,
It is always best to research each of those herbs prior to using them! Research will help you to determine if their healing action matches up with your specific needs!
Directions for use of Vitex:
Capsules: 1,000mg a day is the suggested amount to use. For best results use vitex capsules all month long except during menstruation.
Tincture: Suggested usage is 10-15 drops of vitex extract, 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.
——————————
Suggested Dosage of Dong Quai is 3100mg a day, best used for 3-6 months consistently.
Dong Quai is best used from after menses up to ovulation if actively trying to conceive.
——————————
Suggested Usage of Evening Primrose Oil
General usage is 1500 – 3000 mg once daily. It is always best to begin at the lowest dosage and increase as necessary. EPO is best taken from your period till ovulation, then switch to fish oil or another omega-3 oil. Evening Primrose Oil can cause uterine contractions in pregnancy which is why you should not take it past ovulation (in case you get pregnant).
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Thank you for responding, Dalene. I am going to stop taking vitex the whole cycle. I was previously taking it throughout my period too and perhaps that was increacing the luteal phase too much. I was under the impression that you were to take it all through the month, including your period. I haven’t taken it since I finally started menstrating and will wait until it ends to begin taking 800mg a day again. i was taking one four hundred mg pill in the am and one at night. Is that the proper way to take it? I am using Nature’s Way brand and their directions say take 1-3 four hundred mg capsules a day every day for the first 8 to twelve weeks then only take one a day. I tried it that way and I had extream almost PMDD symptoms. I started out on all three a day, but my ovaries felt so sore I dropped it to two a day. Should I continue on the two four hundred mg capsules, one am and one pm? or should I take them together at the same time?
I stopped taking my birth control pills close to six months ago, but have been charting my ovulation for the last couple of cycles. I’ve found that my menstruation lasts about 2 weeks, I don’t ovulate until around day 29/30 and then I have only been having a luteal phase of 6-7 days. I have been taking a b6 supplement for one month, but now I plan on adding a Vitex extract. I see that you recommend taking Vitex everday except for the bleeding time, but I also read that I should only take it at and after ovulation to remedy the short luteal phase. I don’t want to take it during the wrong part of the cycle – is your suggestion of usage different for my situation? I am worried if I take it in the beginning of the cycle, I may mess up the situation. I also have been pregnant before – I have a 4 year old son that I had by “surprise.” Please let me know your suggestion.
Hi Erika,
It is always best to follow the suggested dosage for the product you have purchased. In your case, it sounds like that suggested dosage is not working for you. I find that vitex is best taken in the morning, all at once, or once in the morning and then early afternoon.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Erica,
I find that Vitex is best used all month long, except during menstruation. Other options for LPD are antioxidants or for some women, progesterone supplementation. You may also want to learn about long cycles and remedies to curb bleeding at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/heavy-menstrual-bleeding.html
I cannot really say how vitex would be best take for you individually, there are so many complexities involved that may be contributing to your short LP and long menses. If you would like more guidance you may want to consider a consultation.
All the best,
Dalene
Well I’m back as of today Nov. 16, 2011 my period is a “no show” I took a pregnancy test and it was negative so I guess I will keep on trying.
This site is so helpful. Thank you in advance!
Like everyone else, I would love your thoughts. I am 35, have been off bcp (was on for over a decade) for 14 months and have very irregular periods. My cycles were averaging about 60 days but then I went away for the summer and didn’t have a period for four months! I have never had a regular menstrual cycle (which is the reason I was put on the pill the first time). I started taking dong quai about four months ago and vitex about three months ago. Since then my period came, after about 50 days. I just went to the dr. who believes I have pcos, even though my blood work seems fine and I don’t have other symptoms like weight issues. I am now worried I am not ovulating at all.
Long story short…if my blood tests showed that my prolactin levels were fine, would you recommend continuing with the vitex? I know you’ve said that it takes 6-12 months to work…am I just being impatient? I find all of the conflicting information so confusing and would really appreciate some guidance. I figured if the herbs could regulate my periods everything would be fine but now I’ve learned that one can menstruate even if ovulation has not occurred.
(Sorry for the rambling…it’s hard to explain all of this succinctly!)
Hi Keiadra,
Consistency over time is key with Vitex! I cannot see past threads on the blog, so I am not sure what your last comment was…but I am wishing you the best!
Dalene
Hi Nicole,
You may very well have PCOS. PCOS is not a disease, but rather layers of different symptoms, that is why it is called a syndrome. PCOS women may be overweight or not. Most do not ovulate regularly. PCOS is an issue that needs to be managed forever, there is no cure, but there are ways to mange it and reduce the symptoms. Diet is important for women with PCOS. Most women with PCOS do no ovulate regularly.
Vitex is not only specific to lowering prolactin in women with high prolactin levels, it is specific to aiding the body in regulation of ovulation. Vitex has been shown to have the ability to adapt to women’s different needs. If you do indeed have PCOS, you are going to need patience long-term, because this is a life-time syndrome that needs to be managed dailiy. You cannot expect that you can take an herb for a few months and be cured, that is not how herbs work, especially vitex. Be patient! Vitex may be taken safely long-term for over a year or more.
It is true that you can menstruate even if you are not ovulating. Learn to chart your cycle, that will help you to see if you are ovulating! Tribulus is an herb that has been found to stimulate ovulation in some women. You can learn more about that herb here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/tribulus-fertility.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Thank you so much for your help Dalene. I really appreciate the advice.
I have a couple of follow up questions if that’s okay. First, I just came across the Pregnancy Prep formula and wanted to know about the amounts of herbs in each capsule. I am currently taking Maca, Dong Quai, and Vitex at the doses you recommend here. Would Pregnancy Prep be sufficient to substitute for all three or would I still need to supplement additionally? I would like to add the Tribulus but at this point, I am taking so many herbs and supplements (the three above plus B6, B12, and folic acid; green tea; inositol; fish oils; multivitamin; and herbs my acupuncturist gave me) that I’m not sure if I can handle any more!
Second question: I would like to start charting (I am already following my CM) my temperature but I know that consistently is key for a useful chart and my concern is that I am not the soundest sleeper (I generally get up a number of times during the night). I’m wondering how one charts with this issue.
Again, I thank you so much for your help. This site really is invaluable and I am so appreciative of your time and compassion.
I have been on birth control pills for 5 years now and just stopped taking them in september because i am trying to get pregnant. I had a menstrual cycle 30 days later. And now i have not had menstrual cycle since then which has been about 46 days ( neg preg. test). I thought about taking vitex to see if it would help my cycle to regulate but not sure if its a good idea? Before the pill i had regular cycles and dont know if my cycles will go back to being regular or if vitex would be a good idea to help me get back on track so i could become pregnant
I had irregular periods since last 2 years and started developing thick facial hair. On a visit to the gynac in July 2011, I have been diagnosed with PCOS. I did a number of researches online to know if any herbal supplement is available to regulate my menstrual cycle and balancing hormones. I found that Vitex is safe and the best in helping people suffering with PCOS and its symptoms. I started taking Vitex in August and I got my periods only in October and then in November (CD35). I started off by taking 2 pills 400mg for 10 weeks and then reduced it to 1 pill per day. I had not taken vitex during menstrual bleeding
I have read that Vitex should not be taken by those who have High LH level and low FSH. I have 2:1 ratio.
Vitex has very good effect on regulating my cycle to normal but Im not sure of balancing the hormones and whether to continue taking it or should I take any other supplement in balancing my hormones.
Kindly advice.
Hi,
I have irregular periods and trying for kids.I am planning to use Vitex,I ordered 400 mg capsules today from Amazon.Please suggest me the dosage everyday to use.I started using prenatal multi vitamins also.I heard fertile aid is also good to regulate periods.Can I use both “vitex” and “fertilaid for women” at a time.Please suggest me.
Thanks in Advance
Hi!!
I have been ttc for about 4 yrs and i was told by my gyno that i have high prolactin level and might have PCOS… Well i stared taking Vitex in October 1, 2011 i was taking it on and off i spotted on October 29 for only 2 days. Stopped taking Vitex on Nov 20. Then i stared on my menstrual cycle on Nov 23-Nov 30. I would like to know when do i start taking vitex again? i know im not supposed to while bleeding or ovulating i have read comments on that. Does that mean its working??? but i would really like to know when is it good to go back to it or when to stop it before and after periods. How long do you think it would take for me to ovulate?
Hi Nicole,
Suggested use of Pregnancy Prep is 2 capsules, 2 times a day. Suggested useage of Tribulus per day is 1500mg, so you should not have to additionally take more of that herb. Suggested useage of Dong Quai is 3120, so more may need to be added. Vitex suggested usage is 1000mg a day, so an additional 500mg may need to be added. Because Pregnancy Prep is a synergistic blend, you may or may not need to add more herbs for your particular needs. Pregnancy Prep is a general herbal blend to prepare for pregnancy. If you have specific problems ovulating or have missed cycles, you may need to take more of on herb or another, it just depends on the person.
Amount per 2 capsules of Pregnancy Prep:
Tribulus terrestris extract 750mg
Rhodiola rosea root extract 100mg
Chaste tree berry extract 215mg
Chaste tree berry 25mg
Raspberry leaf 45mg
Alfalfa leaf 45mg
Dong quai root 45mg
Motherwort herb 45mg
Maca root 45mg
Amylase 2,000 SKB
Protease 7,500 HUT
Lipase 25 FIP
Cellulase 25 CU
You can learn different ways to chart other than BBT at this great guide: http://natural-fertility-info.com/guide-to-fertility-charting.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Shelly,
You can learn how birth control effects the body and what you can do to bring your body back into balance by reading our article at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/birth-control-fertility.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Doreen,
If you have high LH and low FSH, Vitex may not be your best choice, but on the flip side Vitex is an herb that works mysteriously, adapting to women’s different needs. Not all cases of PCOS are created equal and we provide information that may help in general. It sounds like Vitex is aiding your body and regulating the menstrual cycle. This herb has many actions and there are a lot of factors that play into having hormonal imbalance. It is more complicated than having high LH and low FSH, these are just signs that something is not working correctly or communicating properly in the body. Saw Palmetto is an herb that has been show to be helpful for women with hirsutism related to PCOS. Other herbs to look into would be Maca and Tribulus, or progesterone cream. You can learn what we find works well for PCOS here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/pcos-fertility-diet
Without more information on your overall health, lifestyle, fertility history it is hard to say what may be best to do. We do offer consultations if you feel lost!
All the best,
Dalene
I have bee taking Vitex for almost a year now, I loved it because my periods became regular but longer though and I stopped feeling estrogen spikes. However, this month I cant stop bleeding. Last couple of month i was spotting midcycle, I ignored it, its 11th after my period started and I am spotting/light bleeding and I was spotting 5 days before period too, I feel lightheaded these days, I am vegan, but make sure that I get all essential vit. and min. and iron and B12. My doctor too busy to see me this month, bleeding scares me though. I want to try going off the vitex. Do you think that was a cause? Thank you very much.
Thank you Dalene, for your advice, I definetely will seek your consultation services for indept knowledge on PCOS and which herbs will suit me best. Could you advice me how much of mg of Saw Palmetto needs to be taken and when. How does progestrone cream benefit and what are the side effects of using it?
Best wishes
My periods have always been very regular, I can usually predict the day they will start. In the past year or so, my cycle got a little longer (30-33 days), but was still very regular, being able to predict usually within 1-2 days. Recently I went to the gyno, and she noticed that I had some milky fluid that could be squeezed out of my breasts, and told me to have my prolactin checked. The fluid has been there for about a year, and my breasts always ached before my period. My prolactin tested at 50ng, and I took Dostinex (cabergoline) for two months. My breasts stopped hurting, and this month my cycle was 29 days, but I still have the fluid. I am on the 6th day of my cycle now, and I have to wait until the 21st day to go recheck my prolactin. I am wondering if taking Vitex would help even if it is just for a slightly high prolactin level, and I am also wondering if it is possible to get pregnant with a slightly high prolactin level, or if it has to be below the 29ng.
Thank you so much for your advice!
Hello reachingskies,
The suggested daily dosage for vitex is 1000mg. Because different companies products may vary slightly from ours, it is important to follow the directions on the product label of the brand you purchased. I think FertilAid already contains some vitex, so you would want to not exceed daily suggested dosage for vitex if combining two products that contain vitex.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Jennifer,
You would begin the vitex after your period ends. Vitex is best used consistently, stopping when menstruation comes on. It has been shown safe for long-term use of up to 18 months, before taking a break to refresh receptor sites. PCOS is a complex syndrome that requires major lifestyle changes to reduce it’s effects on your fertility. Diet changes are most important. Herbs alone cannot be relied on to change your circumstances. Please read our entire PCOS Guide for more information. There is really no way for me to know how long it will take to regulate your cycle or if it even will regulate. There are just too many variables for me to give a definite answer! It does sound like the vitex is having an positive action though, you got your period, good for you!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Dalene. I have been taking Vitex since June of this year and it seems like the duration of cycle is getting longer instead of shorter. I am taking Nature’s Way brand Vitex at a daily dose of800mg and increased my EPO to 2,000mg a day and I am on my 40th day of my cycle and I’m not even cramping. The brand’s pills are each 400mg and they suggest taking three a day for up to 12 weeks then going down to just one pill a day. I tried that and I had severe PMS almost PMDD symptoms so I went to taking 800mg a day. I have read on your site that the suggested dose for Vitex is 1000mg a day without taking it during menstration. If I take all three pills that would give me a total of 1,200mg a day of Vitex. Is that too much? I’ve had a strange side effect of ingrown hairs on my legs since I started taking it as well. I never had that problem before. I’ve always had irregular periods since puberty and I take thyriod medication for an underactive thyroid. Perhaps vitex is not for me? I’m 34 years old. I’m not actively trying to conceive but I want to protect my fertility and reproductive health and keep myself regular without using birth control pills. I keep getting sore on my right left ovary and sometimes they feel very inflammed. I’m wondering if vitex is not right for me or perhaps I’m just not taking it correctly or giving it enough time. I have heard that it works wonderfully for most women. Thank you for any help you can offer.
Hi!
I am 33 and married. We are trying to conceive. I have had highly irregular periods for a long time. Until a year back I got my periods only every 2 months or so, even that was irregular. Sometimes I had spotting between the periods. Few months back I started taking Vitex 400mg (Natures Way) twice daily. Since then I seem to get my periods every 10-14 days. The problem is I have brown discharge between periods and it is very hard for me to determine the exact start and end days of my period. I feel like I have periods all the time. Is this normal? Will this improve if I continue to take it this way? Do I need to change my regimen? Will it be useful to add any other herb?
Thank You for such a valuable community!
Hi Marina,
If you have been taking Vitex for 2 years and have never experienced bleeding long-term like you are now, it is most likely not the Vitex that caused this,but something else. You could stop the Vitex and see if there is any change in the bleeding. It would be best to see your doctor about the bleeding, which is important, especially if you are not feeling well. Learn natural remedies for heavy or long-term menstrual bleeding here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/heavy-menstrual-bleeding.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Doreen,
Saw Palmetto takes time to be effective. It is suggested for use over a 6 week period, taking notes of any improvements over that time. If improvements are noted, it may be continued on for best results.
Suggested Dosage Capsule: 400mg capsule a day
Suggested Dosage Liquid Extract: 1 tsp. liquid extract a day
*Saw Palmetto combines well with Vitex, Licorice Rt. and Nettles Root for reduction of PCOS. Licorice has also been found to reduce serum testosterone levels in women with PCOS.
You can learn all about Progesterone Cream use here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/progesterone-fertility-guide/
For the first few cycles, Progesterone Cream use may exacerbate estrogen dominance which may cause temporary breast tenderness and swelling, spotting, fluid retention, dizziness, hot flashes, fatigue, headaches and nausea. These are actually good signs the progesterone cream is working.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Joanna,
The normal range for prolactin in non-pregnant women is 4-23, though different clinics may not agree on this. Yours is over that. Vitex may be helpful and may be worth a try. I am not sure about your ability to get pregnant as I am not a medical doctor and unfamiliar with exact number levels which may inhibit pregnancy. High prolactin levels inhibit secretion of FSH and GnRH, which suppress ovulation.
It sounds like you need to lower it a bit.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi,
I have PCOS and I am 22. I have no AF. I havent seen one of them in 4 years. I am taking fertibella and vitex right now. But I was wondering can I take Royal jelly and Evening Primrose Oil too? Is it safe to take all in the morning or do i need to take dem at different times? Im trying to get my AF back and conceive.
hello Dalene, i’m from Mexico, i just oredered Vitex, i have Endometriosis and i read that Vitex could help, i have regular and not painful periods i just want to balace my estrogen levels so the endo stops for a while, what do you think??
i also have a baby girl, after 5 years trying (gift of God) i’m not looking for a baby, but maybe Vitex could help to get pregnant again….
thanks for your answer…
Hi Erika,
It may not be for you. Have you thought of trying other herbs for regulating menstruation? 1200mg is the max dosage a day. You have been using vitex for 8 months now, you should be experiencing results by now. Perhaps it is time to give your body a break from it and see how it does on its own.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Svak,
If after another month you still are having very frequent menstruation, it may be time to look into other herbs for fertility. Spotting mid-cycle/prior to menstruation may be a sign of Luteal Phase Defect. It is odd that this only began once you started the Vitex. Have you had your progesterone levels tested? If not, you may want to consider a doctors appointment or at-home hormone testing. You may also want to stop the vitex and see how your body does on its own again.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Darlene,
My husband and I have a 4 yr old boy, are ttc our second child. I am currently taking Vitex only, between 800 to 1200 mg daily (i have 400 mg capsules). The bottle says to take it 2-3 times a day. I went off the BC pill 2 months ago and this is my second month on Vitex and I am liking it so far, as I thought for sure I was going to have a wacked up period, but it came on time both times. I think i ovulated last month around cycle day 11, just by the change in mucus, however didn’t get pregnant. I don’t know if we missed the right time or what, but we thought we hit the right time last month. We didn’t use ovulation tests, but like I said, I just went by the high increase in egg white like cervical mucus. I am on my period right now and continuously taking Vitex, as that’s what I did last month and I did well on it, so I thought I would just not stop it.
I was wondering though….Can I take Vitex and Tribulus together? Is it safe to take them together? Would it increase my chances of getting pregnant? Should my husband take it too?
Thank you for your time!
Hi whitney,
All of those supplements/herbs have been shown safe to combine. Vitex is best taken throughout the day with water or meals. If you are taking a liquid extract, it is fine to take all at once in the morning. Royal jelly and EPO are best taken throughout the day with a little food. Learn other great tips for PCOS here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/pcos-fertility-diet
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Darlene. I have been actively trying to conceive for the 2nd time for a year now. I have 4 year old twins that I conceived on 50 mg of clomid. My problem then ttc and now is that I ovulate late in my cycle and get my period about 5 or so days later. So I suffer from a short luteal phase. I have been on 100 mg of vitamin B6 for about 2 months and no change. I would really like to get pregnant naturally this time. I had a period of about 14 days last month (bleeding and spotting) and so I started vitex thjs month on CD 6. I am still spotting though. I am taking vitex 3 times a day (400 mg pills). Should I take any other vitamins herbs with the vitex and continue taking B6? Oh I am also taking a vitamin Bcomplex daily. Any advice or suggestion you have would really be appreciated. I am so frustrated that I do not have more control over my body. I am a healthy weight and don’t smoke. I do drink regularly because it truly helps me relax a night.. My diet is pretty good also. Thanks again.
Dana
Hello,
Any advice would help a lot. I am 37 years old and Honestly I can only count the number of times I had menstruation since I was 16. I was brought to a doctor before and gave me provera and result a three months straight menstruation only. After that, I only experienced a little spotting I think every 4 or five months I had hemorrhage at the age of 25 and had it again at age 35 for a month. I really want to have a normal menstruation cycle every month and even want to have at least one baby.
Thanks for this site
Hi Brenda,
Either way, if you desire to heal your body, or both, heal and go on to have another baby, Vitex may not be the best option. If you have not read about remedies that are specific for endometriosis, please do so here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/endometriosis
I am so happy to hear you have a baby girl, good for you!
Dalene
Hi Maggie,
Vitex and Tribulus have been shown safe to combine. Tribulus may be taken by men as well, but only if your husband may need it. I urge you to learn the benefits and cautions for Tribulus here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/tribulus-fertility.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
hi Dalene,
i just read about the endometriosis remedies, here in Mexico i can only get Maca at GNC, i’m taking Vitex right now, should i stop taking it?? i also take Omega 3 and 6 with fish oil everyday and EPO the first part of my cycle, as i said i just want the healthy.
thanks for your time and answer.
Best regards, Brenda.
Hi Dalene,
I have a question in regards to Vitex. I started taking it about 6 months ago after going off BC and only took it for a month or so. 3 days ago, I started taking it again. I am 9DPO and -1O and on the day of O had sex. Yesterday, I started having very faint pink spotting (just when I wiped) and very mild cramping/bloating. Today, I am still very lightly spotting pink/brown. I am not expecting AF for 8 days and usually don’t spot the week before AF.
I was curious if the Vitex could be making me spot already or if it could possibly be implantation bleeding? I know Vitex is slow acting and usually takes several months to do anything. It could just be weird timing with the 2.
Thanks for your time!
HI Dana,
I think our article on Luteal Phase Defect may greatly help you with some new ideas, you can read it here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/luteal-phase-defect.html
Even women who drink 5 or less alcoholic beverages a week have lowered fertility. Alcohol consumption increases the risk for menstrual cycle irregularities. You may want to consider quitting drinking and picking up meditation or yoga instead. See if that changes your cycle at all.
Best wishes,
Dalene
Hi Joyce,
If you have not seen a Reproductive Endocrinologist before you may want to consider it. Having a diagnosis may help you to know which direction is best for your situation, including natural healing methods. We offer consultations if you feel completely lost. I just don’t have enough information about you to answer properly.
All the best,
Dalene
I was taking vitex twice a day and notice that my blood pressure became high. I was wondering if there is another herb I can try. I have PCOS and my husband and I are ttc. I am also taking Don Quai now.
I’ve been taking vitex and just found out I’m pregnant. Should I stop the vitex? what about the prog. dropping too quickly? Thanks
Hi brenda,
I cannot say if you should take vitex or not. It is not suggested for women with very regular ovulation. Everything else you are doing sounds good. Diet really matters with endometriosis, wheat, dairy and soy have been found to make endometriosis worse. So that is something to consider as well.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Nicole,
It may be the vitex. Sometimes the first few cycles, after beginning vitex, may be “off”. If you think you may be pregnant, take a test and do not stop the vitex “cold turkey”. It may be best to wean off of the vitex over a 1-2 week period if you think you may be pregnant.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
I am only 24 and trying for my second child (first with my husband). I am considering taking Vitex but not sure when to take it, how much to take and how to stop slowly if I would only be taking 1 or 2 a day- and when to stop. Thank you.
Hi there ladies…
So I started taking Vitex in Oct 2011 for multiple reasons 1) Wanting to become pregnant 2) PCOS 3) to regulate my periods. I came on November and December. So my thoughts are that the Vitex is working. But this month my period is a no show. Now my first thought was YAAAY I may be pregnant so I waited a couple days just incase. I took a test and
it came back negative. So now I’m wondering what happened?? Have any of you had the same or similar events?
Prayers
Hi Keiadra,
Are you sure it is not the Dong Quai? Dong Quai increases circulation. I have never heard of vitex having this action. It is good if you were not feeling right to discontinue it though. Learn other remedies for PCOS here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/pcos-fertility-diet
Other herbs for PCOS to consider would be Tribulus and Saw Palmetto.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi melonie s,
From the article Safety of Preconception Herbal Remedies During Pregnancy
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
Dalene
Hi Stacey,
I think you will find this video answers your questions, check it out: Vitex for Fertility Q&A
I would not suggest this herb if you have very regular menstrual cycles and ovulation. If you are taking Fertilica Vitex capsules, the suggested dosage is: 1 cap 2-3 times a day, with water or meals.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Prayers,
This area is for blog comments and the other commentators may not read your message. We have a great community of women with PCOS at our Natural Fertility Community, they may be able to reply. It is free to join the community and there a the most supportive wonderful ladies over there! Check it out here: http://fertility.ning.com/
It take vitex many months 6-12 and beyond to be effective. Vitex alone may not be enough to regulate cycles for a woman with PCOS. There are many other factors at play here..especially dietary habits. Learn more about PCOS and fertility here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/pcos-fertility-diet
Best Wishes,
Dalene
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