Expert: Dr. Kristina Conner - 1/23/2008

Question
Hi, I found this website because I was looking for information on what effect Vitex has had on stopping periods, and Voila!  I find two other people with the same issue who both posted questions.  My experience has been that this is the second time Vitex has stopped my periods.  The first time it happened, my period was stopped for many months and only returned when I stopped taking it.  But then my symptoms came back too, so I started taking it again, letting it build up in my system.  Now I have the same issue, where I haven't had a period in 3 months.  I'm cutting back again, but afraid to stop entirely as my periods were horrendous (due to a fibroid tumor).  I don't think it's normal for my periods to stop like this BUT I don't know how to regulate the Vitex to keep this from happening.  Could it be upsetting the estrogen/progesterone balance in my system?

Answer
Hello Shelley
Vitex works well if a woman is not having a regular period because she is not ovulating.  However, there are multiple reasons why that may not be happening such as low progesterone, too much/ too little body fat, polycystic ovarian syndrome, low estrogen, etc.  Without knowing why ovulation is not taking place, it can be difficult to know whether Vitex is the right herb to be taking.  In addition, it could be a matter of right herb/ wrong dose.  
Fibroid tumors are considered an estrogen dominance condition, so theoretically it should work, but there is always room for individual variation.  That's why if you can, I would consult a naturopathic physician or herbalist.  And, there are other ways to address fibroids without Vitex.  I typically help women undertake a significant detoxification program, incorporate a low estrogenic and anti-inflammatory diet, exercise, and manage stress. The combination of these, along with their individual herb prescription, can make a big difference. Using some of these approaches would like be beneficial for you, either on your own or with some guidance.
Good luck and thanks for writing
Dr Conner