Endometriosis Support Group
Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. A major symptom of endometriosis is pain, mostly in the lower abdomen, lower back, and pelvic area.
Has anyone else ever taken Vitex to level out their cycles/hormones? I have had great success with it in the past, but now I am wondering if it isn't making my cycle too short, and I have also had some spotting mid cycle...I am getting so stressed out about it. I don't know if I should keep taking it or not. Any thoughts?
i'm new here, but thought i would share what i know -- when i have taken vitex, it was always in combination with several other herbs related to my condition and proscribed by a professional herbalist. i was reading tonight in my books that it is not generally recommended to self-proscribe because in some cases it can exacerbate endo - in other cases it can be helpful.
'not sure what your doctor preferences are, but i had great success when i worked with a natropath who developed an herbal tincture formula for me specifically -- natropaths are trained in herbal medicine and homeopathy, nutrition and healthy lifestyle approaches. most natropaths will generally will visit with you for the first time for 15 min or 30 min for a free consultation so you can meet them and ask questions and decide if it will be a good work relationship. i like to shop around and find someone who can support my holistic self [physical, emotional, spiritual health].
you may know all this already, but i thought i would suggest to find guidance with an herbalist or naturopath to continue balancing hormones and increasing fertility. some even have sliding scales. you can ask how many appointments you will need before you see results. this might be particularly helpful since you are trying to conceive -- you will find alot of personal support with a good natural practitioner.
i am also ttc, and immediately after 8 months of trying and mounting anxiexy over why not, thought i should take action with acupuncture and herbs since it totally balance my cycle 12 years ago [i felt like a little girl, i couldn't even feel any cramps!]. it was a long time ago, but the support directly related to my own health history meant a lot then, and it is what i am looking for again, now i know i have an endometrioma and ttc.
books on herbal medicine for fertility and endo i have found supportive an beginning herbalist friendly:
gladstar's herbal healing for women
http://www.amazon.com/Herbal-Healing-Women-Rosemary-Gladstar/dp/0671767674/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1329440705&sr=8-1#reader_0671767674
trickey's women hormones and the menstrual cycle
http://www.amazon.com/Women-Hormones-Menstrual-Cycle-Adolescence/dp/186508980X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1329441389&sr=1-1#reader_186508980X