any experience with vitex / agnus castus / herbs? Help!

[CarlottaD27]

I’m in a real panic. I took the Holland and Barrett vitex/Agnus castus supplement for about a week in December (at a high dose).

I immediately experienced sore boobs and my period came dramatically a week early. The two cycles after this i have not ovulated but had a period. As I’m TTC this is the most worrying thing to me and it’s scary to know how long my system will be disrupted. only after trying the supplement did I realise how potent it could be and completely regret it!

Fortunately I’ve got a FS appt next week and I’m hoping something like clomid can restart my cycle … however since I’ve been messed up for two cycles now at the back of my head I’m so worried I’ll never ovulate naturally again.

does anyone have experience of this supplement of knowledge of it??

I’m really struggling to stop beating myself up for taking it and I’m catasrophising the worst.

If anything, this post can be a warning to others that herbs are not to be taken like vitamins and can be really strong! X

[DianeArnold Partner Nurse Fertility Network UK]

Hi Carlotta. Agnus Cactus has been known to help regulate menstrual cycles, although it is not proven. It is sometimes recommended to those who suffer badly with PMT as it is believed to regulate prolactin levels, and has been known to relieve breast tenderness associated with PMT. Prolactin is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain, and some women who take agnus cactus do suffer from headaches. It is not recommended to be taken when going through infertility treatment cycles as it can interact with the drugs given. If you do decide to take it, then take the smallest dose that suits you and just during the first half of your menstrual cycle. You should definitely stop taking it when you become pregnant, as it is believed it can cause miscarriage. Always check with your GP/consultant before taking it, for their best guidance. Diane