Advice for a friend - AF not returned

[Santosha]

Hi all. My friend has been TTC for almost one year but is really struggling with the fact that her period has not returned since weaning her DS (now 22 months) last May. Her GP sounds like he's been pretty unhelpful - "just try to relax, you seem fine to me... maybe eat more and exercise less". She's really fit and healthy and goes the the gym almost daily but I don't think she over-does it - it's not like she's doing marathons or anything. I'm wondering if anyone can give me any ideas as to what she might ask about when she seeks a second opinion. She's had some preliminary tests and told that she is "normal" hormonally. Is there anything that can prevent AF from returning that she can get investigated / treated? Anything she can take / do to induce AF?

We had a MG meet yesterday and 3 of us were PG. It was so hard for her and I really want to help her get this sorted and get her BFP.

TIA

[Janie]

I'm sure there is more her GP could be doing. Perhaps suggest to her that she could seek a second opinion, from another GP, maybe one that has an interest in womens health. Or even see a gynae, if she can't find a GP who will help her. Also, natural therapies could be very helpful, if that's something she would consider trying. Acupuncture, or naturopathy.

You're a lovely friend, it's nice that you're so concerned for her

[Persephone1]

I'm sure there is more her GP could be doing. Perhaps suggest to her that she could seek a second opinion, from another GP, maybe one that has an interest in womens health. Or even see a gynae, if she can't find a GP who will help her. Also, natural therapies could be very helpful, if that's something she would consider trying. Acupuncture, or naturopathy.

You're a lovely friend, it's nice that you're so concerned for her

That's good advice. I had a lot of help with my cycles and hormones from natural herbs and supplements after seeing a naturopath. And getting a second opinion would be good - not menstruating for no apparent reason isn't normal and her GP should be helping to find out why. It might just be a hormone imbalance that's easily fixed.

[Santosha]

Thanks girls. I forgot to mention, she has also seen a Chinese Medicine Practitioner who has given her a 'tincture' - I presume something like a homeopathic treatment? - but has been taking this for a couple of months with no change. Another friend suggested she go back and request acupuncture or some 'stronger' herbs and she is planning to do this soon. Just really fishing to see if anyone knows of specific things she should be asking about. She wants answers... but for now all she can get is a "maybe you could try...". I realise that the body is a subtle and complex thing and she may not get to the bottom of exactly what's happening, but I can completely understand her wanting to know WHY and to therefore have a specific treatment approach.

[Janie]

I can totally understand her wanting very specific answers. But I guess she might not get them. But if she is really keen on knowing more, then she definitely needs to find another Dr her will help her with more specific BTs. Or treatment.

I'm guessing she's in Melbourne? I had the most amazing acupuncturist when I was pg with DS2, and she does fertility stuff too. In fact that's all she does, women's health. I could PM you the details if your friends was interested.

[Santosha]

That would be fantastic Janie. She's not far from me - and I know you're not either - so having a local contact would be great if she wants a second opinion.

[Janie]

She's not local, but I'll send you the details anyway

[Santosha]

Anyone else with experiences or ideas?