About 75% of women experience menstrual cramps during their periods.
CBD products from Online Dispensary Canada are gaining popularity for pain relief, though research on their effectiveness is still limited. Some studies suggest that CBD could reduce inflammation, making it potentially beneficial for those experiencing menstrual cramps.
This article discusses menstrual pain, explores how CBD may offer relief, and suggests various CBD product consumption methods for treating menstrual cramps.
Key Points
- CBD products ease inflammation and alleviate menstrual cramps. Other options include pain relievers, heat therapy, or gentle exercise.
- While research is limited, some studies suggest cannabis may relieve menstrual pain.
- There’s a global trend towards studying cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes.
What Is PMS and Menstrual Pain?
Menstruation is a monthly, cyclic event in a woman’s body involving changes in the ovaries and endometrium. As a follicle grows, the endometrium thickens in preparation for a fertilized egg. If no fertilization occurs, the endometrium sheds, causing menstruation.
This hormonal process can lead to symptoms like headaches, mood swings, uterine cramps, and abdominal/back pain, known as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). Some women experience such severe pain that it disrupts daily life, termed dysmenorrhea, requiring medication for relief.
Symptoms of Menstrual Pain
Menstrual pain, also known as period pain or dysmenorrhea, can occur before or during menstruation. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) encompasses a range of symptoms that may arise a week or two before menstruation begins.
While hormonal changes may trigger menstrual pain, its exact cause remains unknown.
For some, menstrual pain is mild, but for others, it can severely disrupt daily life. A 2021 research review revealed that 16–91% of women of reproductive age experience frequent menstrual pain, with 2–29% experiencing severe pain.
Symptoms of menstrual pain include lower abdominal cramps, back pain, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, bloating, and vomiting. Headaches, irritability, and fatigue may also accompany menstrual pain.
Cannabis as a Solution for Menstrual Discomfort
In 2015, Wiebe ER, et al. surveyed 192 women about their use of cannabis for menstrual pain relief. Cannabis is purchasable from dispensaries in Vancouver. Of those surveyed, 85% reported using cannabis for menstrual pain, with nearly 90% finding it effective. Most commonly, participants smoked or ingested cannabis.
Cannabis is believed to have therapeutic benefits for various illnesses, including chronic pain, headaches, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis symptoms, and gastrointestinal disorders.
The use of cannabis for pain relief isn’t new; it dates back 5000 years, with Egyptians using it for neuralgia, headaches, and toothaches. Interest in using CBD specifically for menstrual pain relief seems to be growing.
CBD’s pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties could help with issues like lower back pain and abdominal cramps during menstruation. Both cannabis and CBD have shown promise in relieving similar symptoms.
Basics of Cannabis
Marijuana has active compounds known as cannabinoids. The 2 most prevalent are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These controlled substances interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain perception and inflammation.
| Aspect | THC | CBD |
| Pain Relief | Effective in reducing pain perception | Effective in reducing inflammation and pain |
| Psychoactive Effects | Produces psychoactive effects (euphoria, altered perception) | Non-intoxicating; does not produce psychoactive effects. |
| Anti-inflammatory | Mild anti-inflammatory properties | Potent anti-inflammatory properties |
| Muscle Relaxation | Provides muscle relaxation | Provides muscle relaxation |
| Anxiety Reduction | May increase anxiety in some individuals | Anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects |
While THC is known for its psychoactive properties, CBD is non-intoxicating and does not produce a “high.” Both cannabinoids have demonstrated potential in managing various types of pain, including menstrual discomfort.
How to Use Cannabis for Menstrual Pain
1. Tinctures
CBD tinctures are taken orally using a dropper. They can be placed under the tongue or added to drinks. It’s important to adhere to the product instructions and be cautious about dosage. Explore more about CBD tinctures.
2. Topicals
Topical CBD products, such as balms, creams, and lotions, can be freely and directly applied to the skin for targeted relief from menstrual cramps. However, measuring dosage with these products may be more challenging. Before applying widely, consider doing a patch test to check for skin reactions.
3. Capsules or Pills
CBD capsules and pills are ingested orally, allowing for easier dosage measurement. Discover more about CBD dosages.
4. Gummies
Various CBD gummy products are available in different flavors. Learn more about CBD gummies.
5. Patches
CBD patches are taken directly to the skin, enabling targeted pain relief. They can be placed strategically to address specific areas of discomfort. Some patches can continuously deliver CBD through the skin for several days. Explore CBD patches for pain.
6. Other Forms
CBD is also available in edibles, sprays, and vaping liquid.
Dosing Guidelines for Cannabis Use
- The balance of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) to CBD (cannabidiol) in a product can impact its strength and effects. Products with higher CBD levels may be preferable for pain relief without the harmful psychoactive effects of THC.
- A typical starting dose for CBD is 5-10 milligrams (mg) per day, which can be raised to 20-40 mg daily based on individual tolerance and response.
- Start with a very low THC dose, around 1-2.5 mg, especially for newcomers to cannabis or those sensitive to its effects. Gradually increase this with caution, up to 10-20 mg per dose for pain relief.
- The way you consume cannabis (e.g., smoking, vaping, edibles, oils) affects how quickly and strongly you feel its effects. For instance, edibles take longer to kick in but may last longer compared to smoking.
Remember, individual reactions to cannabis can vary, so pay attention to your body and adjust your dosage accordingly.
Conclusion
While cannabis shows promise as a natural remedy for menstrual discomfort, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing strategies. With further scientific exploration and understanding, cannabis may offer a valuable alternative or adjunctive therapy for individuals seeking relief from menstrual discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use CBD Oil With a Tampon?
Avoid putting CBD oil on a tampon and inserting it into the vagina, as this could disrupt the balance of bacteria and acids. It may lead to irritation and infection.
Does CBD Affect Periods?
No, CBD doesn’t impact menstrual cycles. Like estrogen and progesterone, hormone levels naturally fluctuate throughout the month, regulating menstruation.
How Much CBD Is Recommended for Menstrual Cramps?
Follow the instructions on your CBD product and start with a low cann dose, gradually increasing to gauge tolerance and effectiveness for relieving menstrual cramps.
Consult a doctor before trying a new CBD product to discuss appropriate dosages.
Jessica has a flair for writing engaging blogs and articles. She enjoys reading and learning new things which enables her to write different topics and fields with ease. She also strives to break down complex concepts and make them easy for anybody to comprehend.
