Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 1/10/2008

Question
QUESTION: Hello .
Could you please help me.
I missed my period for 2 months and I am not pregnant

My last period was 9 on November . My FSH level was 22 in October it is why i decided to take Vitex.
I took Vitex with red clover, raspberry leaf for 2.5-3 weeks( started 19 Nov) -then I stopped because I though that I pregnant ( home pregnancy test showed positive)

I did not 3 bood test and ultrasound which show that I am not pregnant, everything is normal except I missed my period for 2 month and FSH level jumped to 114 ( 1 month ago it was 22).
Could Vitex cause missing period and increase FSH ?

P.S I am 32 year old , I had regular period .

Please , answer me . I could not able to find answer anywhere -(

thank you very much ,
Masha

ANSWER: Masha,
Thanks for your question. Vitex typically lowers FSH, and regulates menstrual cycles, so it may not be what is causing your current symptoms.  FSH is higher at ovulation, so it's possible that you were at that stage in your cycle when the blood was drawn.  Or perhaps there was an interaction with the other herbs, or another reason for this.  What I'd suggest is that you seek out a naturopathic doctor, who can evaluate & treat your condition.  Without full information, it's hard to determine what's going on.  You can find an ND at www.naturopathic.org.  I really think this would be your best bet at this time.  
Good luck
Dr Conner

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you very much for your answer Dr Kristina

The reason why I asked you because I read in this website that one person missed her period after she took Vitex for 2 week 800 mg per day (Subject: Vitex giving odd results: missed periods)http://en.allexperts.com/q/Alternative-Medicine-991/Vitex-giving-odd-results.htm

I took the same dose 800 mg/ per day for 3 weeks. I wonder if overdose could unbalance hormones in  my system ?
What could happen if a person will take Vitex in 5 time more than recommend ?

Thank you very much for your help.
Masha

Answer
Masha,
You're welcome.  
Certainly, if taken in excess, any herbs can cause adverse effects.  These typically do not last after one stops taking the herb, but it is possible.  However, depending on the type & concentration of the herb, 800 mg may the correct amount.  That is within the normal range for the raw herb/ berry, available in capsules.  But it may be too much of an extracted form, depending on the concentration of the extract.  If you are using any herbs, there should be a recommended dosage on the label.  Without further guidance, it's always best to stick to what is on the label.  
Dr Conner