[Guest]

My husband and I got off the pill, Estrostep FE, in February. I have not experienced a period for 2 years or more. I thought it was because of the pill I was on, but my period still has not returned. I have done 2 progesterone withdrawl treatments and 1 round on Clomid 50 MG and just found out today that I have not ovulated again. In fact my progesterone level is 1.4. I also found out before I took the CLomid that I have 3-4 cysts on ea. ovary. I am going back this week. What should I ask? I am concerned that there is something really wrong. Any advice or thoughts are appreciated. I feel a little helpless right now.

[Mike Berkley, L.Ac.]

Hi:
I am so sorry to hear of this difficult news! For one thing, there are some thoughts that OBCP can 'down regulate' pituitary function, which, via its relationship with the ovaries account for menstruation and ovulation.

Secondly, the fact that you have multiple cysts on your ovaries may point to PCOS or PCO 'like' syndrome which can certainly contribute to annovulation.

Thirdly, what is your FSH? If it is over 40 and you are under 40 and you have missed 3 periods in a row, your situation is clinically termed 'premature ovarian failure'.

To arrive at a true differential diagnosis you should consider seeing a reproductive endocrinologist. The treatment protocol will be dertermined by the diagnostic findings.

In many cases acupuncture and herbal medicine may also contribute to re-balancing you over-all health as well as your gyneco-reproductive health as well.

Best wishes.

Mike Berkley, L.Ac.