{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/period-pain/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2674-markdown","title":"How CBD Can Help Relieve Endometriosis Pain","slug":"how-cbd-can-help-relieve-endometriosis-pain","content":"In endometriosis, the cells that form the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) occur outside of the organ, in places like the ovaries or Fallopian tubes. When a woman has her monthly menstrual cycle, the uterus sheds this endometrial lining—and the improperly growing cells along with it. Once shed, this tissue has nowhere to go and in some cases, it can cause pain that’s so severe that it can lead to hospitalization. \n\nWorldwide, 6–15% of women who are of reproductive age have endometriosis. Typical treatments for endometriosis usually involve painkillers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), hormonal birth control and surgery. However, these options can come up short for many women. \n\nJessica Peters, a cannabis clinician and founder of Moxie Meds, thinks that cannabidiol (CBD), one of cannabis’s many active compounds, can help women find relief from endometriosis—a condition she’s personally acquainted with.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### CBD Reduces Jessica’s Endometriosis Pain\n\nJessica first encountered CBD in 2010 when she was working at Market Street Cooperative, a now defunct dispensary that served a large portion of the San Francisco HIV/AIDS community. She took the position instead of pursuing work on a ship with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration—a move she says she made partly because of how severe her endometriosis symptoms were. \n\n“All I could think about was: If I have an endometriosis attack while I’m out at sea on a ship filled with 90% men and not at a hospital, I’m not going to make it through this. When I was younger, I can't recall any month in which I didn't miss school or work for at least one day [due to the pain caused by endometriosis],” she says. \n\nWhen she first tried CBD during her menstrual cycle, she could tell something was different: “I really noticed a reduction of cramps; I really noticed this pain relief, and I thought, ‘Wow, what might be going on here?’” she says. \n\nHer interest piqued, Jessica went on to work at Harborside Health Center, a medical cannabis dispensary in Oakland, CA, in hopes of further exploring CBD’s properties. At the time, CBD’s effects were largely unknown. She became the dispensary’s CBD specialist and began creating in-house products for them.  \n\n“At this point in time, my endometriosis [symptoms] had substantially changed. I could tell [CBD] was affecting it,” she says. “I would even withdraw it to see if my endo symptoms would come back, and in fact, they did—because that's what you do when you're science-minded: You torture your own body to see what might happen.” \n\n### The Endocannabinoid System Is Out of Whack When Endometriosis Is Present \n\nWhy did Jessica see such dramatic results from CBD, especially when nothing else she did—like conventional pharmaceuticals and alternative medicines—had much effect on her pain?  \n\nIn recent years, research has indicated that the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—the network of receptors located throughout the body that’s responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive and therapeutic effects—could have a role to play in the development of treatments for endometriosis.  \n\nRELATED: [HOW THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM AFFECTS WOMEN’S HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a271593100a820006562eb8/how-the-endocannabinoid-system-affects-womens-health)\n\nThere are currently three receptors associated with the ECS: CB1, CB2 and TRPV1. Your body makes molecules called endocannabinoids that attach to these receptors; the most well-studied of these are anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), though there are others as well. \n\nResearch indicates that [women with endometriosis have various imbalances in their ECS](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26887427). They tend to have lower levels of CB1 receptors in their endometrial tissue and higher levels of endocannabinoids, like AEA, in their blood. CB1 and AEA play a role in how our body perceives pain. Thus, the imbalance of these components is likely influencing how they work to manage pain. \n\nThe cannabis plant makes molecules called phytocannabinoids that can also attach to ECS receptors. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD are two of the most well-studied of these phytocannabinoids. THC is remarkably similar in structure to AEA, so it can attach to the same receptor in your body to elicit various therapeutic effects. \n\nWe still don’t fully understand how CBD influences the ECS. In some cases, it attaches directly to CB1 and CB2 receptors. In other instances, CBD slows the breakdown of your body’s endocannabinoids; it may even influence how other substances attach to ECS receptors. \n\n### The Terpene Beta-Caryophyllene Increases CBD’s Efficacy\n\nWorking at Harborside, Jessica had more access to CBD-rich extracts, as well as the resources to study CBD’s properties. She eventually stumbled on a paper that mentioned the terpene beta-caryophyllene as the first “dietary cannabinoid.” \n\nBeta-caryophyllene is [one of the many terpenes found in the cannabis plant](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a99e9f4f24d1300077ccb6f/cannabis-terpenes-pack-a-therapeutic-punch). Terpenes are aromatic compounds that are found in many different foods. They are what gives lemons their characteristic citrusy smell, for instance. \n\nTerpenes aren’t notable just for their aromas: It’s now thought that terpenes can affect the nature of the high you experience when consuming cannabis. Knowing this, Jessica set out to explore beta-caryophyllene’s properties. \n\nShe looked for food-based sources of beta-caryophyllene and created a handout to give to her patients at Harborside. She noticed that those who consumed more foods rich in beta-caryophyllene seemed to have more success in using cannabis for whatever their particular condition was. \n\nWhen Jessica was eventually approached by some investors to create cannabis products for the now-defunct Moxie Meds, she immediately knew she wanted to develop something for women. Her previous work led her to ask, \"Could you put beta-caryophyllene in the medication, and if you did, would that change it?\"\n\nTrue to her background in the sciences, Jessica found folks who were willing to serve as guinea pigs. As she was already familiar with their cannabis dosing regimen, she added safe levels of beta-caryophyllene into their medication and observed the effects. \n\nUltimately, she discovered that if beta-caryophyllene was added to a patient’s cannabis medication, they usually needed less CBD and THC to get the same—or in some cases, better—effect. \n\nRELATED: [KNOW YOUR TERPENES: BETA-CARYOPHYLLENE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ae15d2d049b4f000a64e8e7/know-your-terpenes-beta-caryophyllene)\n\nThis discovery also had an impact on Jessica’s own dosing regimen for her endometriosis. Prior to this revelation, Jessica was taking 40–50 mg of CBD and THC in a 1:1 ratio, three times a day. Since adding beta-caryophyllene, she takes about 7.5 mg of CBD in a 4:1 CBD to THC ratio and only uses the 1:1 CBD to THC ratio for pain relief, if needed. At this point, she hasn’t had an endometriosis attack in about five years; she now considers her endometriosis asymptomatic. \n\n“We don't have the science yet to prove this, but it’s strongly my belief that [CBD with the addition of beta-caryophyllene has] regulated my hormonal functioning,” she says. “If I’m doing my protocol correctly, I don't need a lot of pain relief. I don't need to bring out that 1:1 very often.”\n\n### Women With Endometriosis Have a Lot More CB2 Receptors \n\nWe don’t yet have the science to fully explain why Jessica and her patients saw such positive results, but there are some clues that may point us in the right direction. As previously mentioned, women with endometriosis tend to have fewer CB1 receptors in their endometrium. However, the opposite is true for CB2: Studies suggest that [women with endometriosis have a higher expression of this receptor](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18419603), perhaps as part of the body’s inflammatory response. \n\nCannabinoids that attach to CB2 receptors can control the release of cytokines, small proteins that can control the actions of cells. These cytokines are in turn responsible for a variety of immune responses, including the release of pro-inflammatory compounds. It’s thought that compounds that attach to CB2 can have therapeutic applications to many diseases.\n\nScientists are still working on [identifying compounds that bind to CB2](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27215781)—we know that THC can bind to this receptor, but it often doesn’t. However, research does indicate that [beta-caryophyllene selectively activates CB2](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18574142/). \n\nJessica acknowledges that there’s still a lot we don’t know about CBD’s relationship with the CB2 receptor, but based on what’s she’s witnessed, she’s made a few inferences. \n\n“The presence of beta-caryophyllene seems to allow CBD to either bind to those [CB2] receptors more efficiently, or more preferentially. It's doing something that’s allowing CBD to increase its efficacy,” she says.   \n\n### CBD Can Help With Endometriosis, But More Research & Education Are Needed\n\nUnfortunately, Jessica’s company, Moxie Meds, was forced to shut down after the 2017 fires in northern California. As a result, that magical formula of CBD and beta-caryophyllene is currently unavailable. It’s “brutal” to watch this happen, says Jessica. She has since referred patients back to her Harborside handout as a way for them to add more beta-caryophyllene into their diet. \n\nThough her next steps are unclear, it’s apparent that cannabis education as it relates to women’s health is of great importance to her, and she’ll likely continue to work in this context. \n\n“Women's health in a Western context is quite ignored. Other countries have endometriosis-specific medications pharmaceutical-wise; we don't even have that,”  she says. “We're not looking for this disease; we're not talking about it.”\n\n“I spent much of my life thinking I just had a really bad [menstrual] cycle,” she adds. “Now with just a combination of cannabinoids, terpenes and phytonutrients, [my endometriosis] isn’t present in any way. It’s shocking and amazing, and it should be of great scientific curiosity to medical practitioners. And it’s incredibly frustrating that it’s not.” \n\nJessica continues to consult with physicians in other states, educating them on cannabis’s effects on the body. Meanwhile, awareness of endometriosis is on the rise, with celebrities like Lena Dunham and Padma Lakshmi speaking out about their experiences. \n\nWhile women in the United States still don’t have access to medications specifically intended to treat the symptoms of endometriosis, cannabis and its constituents can provide hope for the many women whose lives are deeply impacted by this condition. \n\nPhoto credit: [Jasper Graetsch](https://unsplash.com/search/photos/jasper-graetsch)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/14b42/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/f836f/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/2244e/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 400w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/14b42/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 800w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/47498/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 1200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/0e329/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 1600w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/77d93/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/58556/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/61e93/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/1f5c5/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 400w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/58556/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 800w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/99238/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 1200w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/7c22d/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 1600w,\n/static/cdebddb2948d23f581767ba7be27007b/d4378/7b71fd3e294b46a95f862cda3a7981e1.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2650-markdown","title":"5 Alternative Approaches to Managing Painful Periods","slug":"5-alternative-approaches-to-managing-painful-periods","content":"Painful periods have plagued women of all backgrounds for millennia. Yet for something that’s so frequently experienced, the [scientific evidence on how to alleviate this pain is remarkably inconclusive](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4205951/). The most common way to manage period pain is via the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal birth control. But it’s estimated that [NSAIDs don’t work for about 18% of women](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002937817310955), and some women can’t take hormonal birth control due to a family history of certain cancers.\r\n\r\nWomen who are unable to find relief from period pain by conventional means must explore alternative avenues of pain management. This is where cannabis’s powerful anti-spasmodic and pain-relieving properties come in. Marijuana has been used in women’s health for centuries, and as the modern cannabis industry continues to grow, more women are using it to address pain during menstruation. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\nIn addition to cannabis, women can take a variety of other approaches to manage period pain. These methods have varying degrees of scientific backing or are traditional folk remedies passed down from generation to generation. This doesn’t mean these alternative strategies don’t work—it just indicates that more research is needed to explore all of the ways women around the world deal with this universal health issue. \r\n\r\nMany of these methods have worked anecdotally for women. It just takes time and a little bit of experimentation to find out what works best for your body. \r\n\r\n### What Causes Painful Periods? \r\n\r\nDuring menstruation, molecules called prostaglandins stimulate contractions in the uterus. These contractions cut off oxygen to the organ, resulting in cramping, pain and heaviness in the abdomen that can radiate to the lower back, hips and inner thighs. This type of menstrual pain has a medical name: dysmenorrhea.\r\n\r\nThere are two types of dysmenorrhea:\r\n\r\n* primary\r\n* secondary\r\n\r\nPain from primary dysmenorrhea is what women typically associate with being on their period. Pain usually begins one to two days before the start of menstruation and can last up to 72 hours—though in some women, pain can start at ovulation and continue until the last day of bleeding. \r\n\r\nPain from primary dysmenorrhea can be mild to severe; it can be accompanied by nausea, fatigue and diarrhea. For about 20% of women, pain from dysmenorrhea is so severe that it interferes with daily activities. \r\n\r\nSecondary dysmenorrhea is pain during menstruation that’s due to a disorder in the reproductive organs—examples include endometriosis, uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts. In these types of cases, pain usually starts earlier in the menstrual cycle and can last longer than pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea.\r\n\r\nPainful periods are a complex, lengthy topic, so for this article, we’ll focus on pain from primary dysmenorrhea. \r\n\r\n### 1. Diet & Nutritional Supplements May Reduce Painful Periods \r\n\r\nAs with many medical conditions, what you eat can play a role in the severity of your painful period symptoms. A study conducted among university students in Iran looked at women who reported having painful periods and those who didn’t. They found [significant differences in the nutrition between the two groups](https://f1000researchdata.s3.amazonaws.com/manuscripts/13494/a7179d4e-7da8-4cd0-b7d3-9541b6d9aaa8_12462_-_Mahrokh_Dolatian.pdf?doi=10.12688/f1000research.12462.1).\r\n\r\nThe researchers suggested eating foods that reduce the synthesis of prostaglandins—those pro-inflammatory molecules that cause uterine contractions—could help relieve pain from dysmenorrhea. \r\n\r\nFoods rich in magnesium and fiber could fit this bill. A 2017 pilot study in India found that [blood magnesium levels were lower in women who experience pain during their periods than women who don’t](https://nessapublishers.com/articles/5536Article%20Chhabra%20S-%20NJG.pdf).\r\n\r\nConsuming anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, may also help with reduce period pain. Omega-3s in particular may [interfere with the body’s production of prostaglandin](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3071802/). \r\n\r\nIn one double-blind, randomized clinical trial of 100 university students, [those who were given omega-3s in the form of fish oil, vitamin E or both in combination had less menstrual pain](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09513590.2018.1450377) than those given the placebo. The study also noted the group that took both supplements experienced the most pain reduction. \r\n\r\nSimilar results have also been found with vitamin B1. A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial of 240 students found that consumption of [100 mg of vitamin B1 a day over two months reduced period pain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4796395/). \r\n\r\nIt’s also thought that meat, dairy and salty foods promote the production of prostaglandins, so avoiding those foods, especially during your periods could help manage pain. \r\n\r\n### 2. Exercise Increases Blood Flow, Easing Menstrual Pain\r\n\r\nThe same Iranian study found that dysmenorrhea is less prevalent in women who exercise regularly. Exercise reduces stress levels and increases blood flow to the pelvic area, disrupting the accumulation of prostaglandins and delaying the onset of pain, according to researchers. \r\n\r\nStudies also note that [stress can play a factor in how much pain women experience during their periods](https://academic.oup.com/epirev/article/36/1/104/566554). So, taking steps to reduce stress during this time of the month is also key. Overall, exercise is most effective if it’s a regular part of your daily routine.\r\n\r\n### 3. Cannabis’s Anti-Inflammatory Properties May Relieve Period Pain  \r\n\r\n[Cannabis and women’s health have been linked for centuries](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a43d73d100a820006562f3b/cannabis-use-for-womens-health-through-the-ages): Women in medieval Europe made hemp-based salves to rub on sore breasts. Meanwhile, Queen Victoria was famously prescribed cannabis by her physician to help with menstrual pain. \r\n\r\nIn spite of cannabis’s past applications in women’s health, there’s no research on cannabis as a treatment for painful periods. However, this shouldn’t discourage women who are searching for alternatives. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WOMEN’S HEALTH & MARIJUANA: PMS, DYSMENORRHEA, & MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a25da65100a820006562eb7/womens-health-and-marijuana-pms-dysmenorrhea-and-menopause)\r\n\r\n“The pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabinoids are not specific to menstrual pain, but can be generalized to pain and inflammation throughout the body,” says [Christine Skibola](https://www.hellomd.com/people/5a5fd25a0b9de5000ac4926a/chrisskibola), co-founder of cannabis brand [Cosmic View](https://www.acosmicview.co/), international cancer researcher and former school of public health professor at UC Berkeley and the University of Alabama, Birmingham. \r\n\r\nChristine says that cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have shown significant promise in basic pain experiments. She adds that [CBD and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) can inhibit COX enzymes](https://www.theroc.us/researchlibrary/Evaluation%20of%20the%20Cyclooxygenase%20Inhibiting%20Effects%20of%20Six%20Major%20Cannabinoids%20Isolated%20from%20Cannabis%20sativa.pdf)—molecules involved in the production of those pesky prostaglandins, the main culprit of menstrual cramps. \r\n\r\n### 4. Acupuncture May Ease Menstrual Cramps \r\n\r\nIt’s hard to subject acupuncture to the Western gold standard of double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials: It’s a technique that’s inherently difficult to placebo, and like cannabis, its effects are individualistic. Because of this, acupuncture isn’t given much credibility in helping with menstrual pain (or pain, in general), though there are some studies that suggest that it can. \r\n\r\nA study published in _PLOS One_ performed four different types of acupuncture on four groups of women with dysmenorrhea over a three-month period. [By the end of this period and in the nine-month follow up, all groups had a significant reduction in pain](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0180177).\r\n\r\nThere are many theories as to how acupuncture works; it might:\r\n\r\n* Reduce inflammation\r\n* Change prostaglandin levels\r\n* Stimulate blood flow in the uterus\r\n* Stimulate the release of the body’s natural opioids  \r\n\r\nStudies also indicate that [acupuncture affects the endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6267098425e40008273a32/how-acupuncture-interacts-with-the-endocannabinoid-system), the network of receptors located throughout your body that are responsible for the effects of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. These studies suggest that acupuncture also stimulates production of not only the body’s natural opioids, but also the body’s natural cannabinoids.  \r\n\r\n### 5. Vaginal Steaming Is an Unconventional Way to Address Period Pain \r\n\r\nThe Internet did a collective eye roll when [Gwyneth Paltrow featured vaginal steaming in her lifestyle magazine _Goop_](https://goop.com/health-and-beauty/california/los-angeles/santa-monica/tikkun-spa/), provoking responses like: “[Gwyneth Paltrow defends vaginal steaming against medical science](https://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2016/07/gwyneth-paltrow-defends-vaginal-steaming-against-medical-science/).” That said, in cultures around the world, it’s tied closely to vaginal health and wellness. And it’s one way women address painful periods. \r\n\r\nVaginal steaming is an old-world health technique that’s practiced in Africa, Asia and Central America. A woman sits over smoke or steam of a particular set of herbs for 15 to 45 minutes. The steam and heat are said to move up towards the cervix and uterus, promoting blood flow, which can loosen leftover debris, like blood clots. There are also other effects, depending on the types of herbs used. \r\n\t\r\n“It's a similar thing that [happens with] exercising or heat therapy or vasodilation—which is what the THC in cannabis does; it promotes blood flow to the tissue, optimizes tissue health and helps the uterus with its natural cleansing mechanism,” says Kiana Reeves, a birth and postpartum doula and operations manager at [Foria](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/5760c7d0e4599e00070000d7/foria), a cannabis company that focuses on women’s health.\r\n\r\nKiana acknowledges that there’s no research on vaginal steaming—it’s not exactly the type of treatment likely to receive funding. But Kiana, who also owns a company that focuses on women’s pelvic health, says that she gets positive feedback from women who engage in the practice.\r\n\r\n“What the case studies [show] is that women who have experienced very dark, spotty painful periods, after five days of steaming in a row and regular upkeep on a steam regimen, start to get fresh red menses for five days straight,” she says. \r\n\r\nVaginal steaming isn’t without its controversies. Conventional gynecologists often caution against the practice because there’s no research on the topic. This hasn’t stopped women from trying it. If you’re thinking of using vaginal steaming as a way to manage dysmenorrhea, Kiana advises working with a holistic physician or functional medicine specialist. \r\n\r\n“I think it's really interesting how complex [women’s reproductive] systems are, and we have to be aware of that,” she says. She adds that the best way to manage painful periods is to take a holistic approach—there’s no silver bullet for period pain. \r\n\r\n“The trick,” says Kiana, “is to bring cannabis in as a wellness tool along with diet, along with the proper exercise and other tools that have been traditionally used.” \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Hadis Safari](https://unsplash.com/@hadissa)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/14b42/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/f836f/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/2244e/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 400w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/14b42/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 800w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/47498/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/0e329/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 1600w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/4f346/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.jpg 2144w","srcWebp":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/58556/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/61e93/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/1f5c5/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 400w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/58556/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 800w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/99238/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 1200w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/7c22d/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 1600w,\n/static/0b1179b42ea5bd773acea50579f1080b/b477d/1c4f81544860fcd98aa180024fe1ae27.webp 2144w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2454-markdown","title":"Women’s Health & Marijuana: PMS, Dysmenorrhea & Menopause ","slug":"womens-health-and-marijuana-pms-dysmenorrhea-and-menopause","content":"Whether it’s feeling depressed in the days leading up to your period, experiencing painful cramps during menstruation or lying in bed awake due to hot flashes—pain, mood swings and insomnia are symptoms that women of all ages experience due to their complex and nuanced reproductive systems. When we think of women’s health and cannabis, we often think of these symptoms and their associated conditions: premenstrual syndrome (PMS), dysmenorrhea and menopause. Fortunately, cannabis—with its varied therapeutic properties—can offer many avenues of relief. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### What Is PMS, Dysmenorrhea & Menopause?\r\n\r\n**PMS**\r\n\r\nPMS or premenstrual syndrome encompasses a wide range of unpleasant symptoms including: bloating, fatigue, headaches, cramping, lower back pain, breast swelling and tenderness, constipation, diarrhea and change in mood. These symptoms usually occur one to two weeks before menstruation, typically lasting six days. The cause of PMS is unknown, but it’s thought that hormone changes play a role.  \r\n\r\n**Dysmenorrhea**\r\n\r\nA majority of women have experienced a painful period at some point in their lives—this type of menstrual pain has a medical term: dysmenorrhea. Symptoms typically include cramping or pressure in the abdomen as well as pain in the hips, back and inner thighs. Menstrual cramping is caused by strong contractions of the uterus that briefly cut off oxygen to the organ, resulting in pain. There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary and secondary. \r\n\r\nPrimary dysmenorrhea is what women typically associate with being on their period—pain that can begin one to two days before the period starts and that lasts up to 72 hours. Pain can be mild to severe and can be accompanied by nausea, fatigue and diarrhea. Dysmenorrhea typically improves with age, especially if the woman has a baby. \r\n\r\nSecondary dysmenorrhea is pain due to a disorder in the reproductive organs—examples include endometriosis, adenomyosis and uterine fibroids. With secondary dysmenorrhea, pain usually begins earlier in the menstrual cycle and typically lasts longer than pain associated with primary dysmenorrhea.   \r\n\r\n**Menopause**\r\n\r\nMenopause begins when a woman hasn’t had a period for 12 months. At this point, a woman’s ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, leading to a host of symptoms including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, trouble sleeping, night sweats, slowed metabolism and mood changes—the severity of these symptoms depends on the individual. Menopausal women are also at greater risk for certain medical conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease. \r\n\r\n### Who’s Affected by PMS, Dysmenorrhea & Menopause? \r\n\r\n**PMS**\r\n\r\nThe majority of women will experience PMS in their lifetimes, but clinically significant PMS—symptoms that are moderate or severe enough to affect a woman’s day-to-day functioning—occurs in about 20% to 30% of women. PMS tends to worsen as a woman approaches menopause, typically in her late 30s to 40s. A more severe form of PMS, PMDD—premenstrual dysphoric disorder, [affects 3% to 8% of menstruating women](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24161307).\r\n\r\n**Dysmenorrhea**\r\n\r\nDysmenorrhea is a common menstrual disorder that usually occurs within the first year of a girl’s menstrual period. More than 50% of women who menstruate experience some kind of pain for one to two days each month. The prevalence of secondary dysmenorrhea is more difficult to determine because there are various conditions that can cause this type of pain. Typical causes of secondary dysmenorrhea, such as endometriosis, adenomyosis and uterine fibroids are common in the U.S. with more than 200,000 new cases of each condition being diagnosed each year, according to the Mayo Clinic.  \r\n\r\n**Menopause**\r\n\r\nMenopause refers to the transition that all women will experience as they age. Interestingly, the onset of menopause can vary depending on the country—for women in Western societies, the typical age of onset is between 40 to 61 years old, with an average of 51 years of age. Women with certain reproductive disorders, who experience premature ovarian failure, or who’ve had surgery to remove reproductive organs may experience menopause earlier than normal. \r\n\r\n### How Can Cannabis Help With PMS, Dysmenorrhea & Menopause?\r\n\r\nThe [endocannabinoid system likely plays a role in all aspects of female reproduction](http://jme.endocrinology-journals.org/content/50/1/R1.full). However, the exact mechanisms of how it does this still needs further study. What we do know is that cannabis anecdotally (and in some cases scientifically) can help with the many symptoms women experience due to PMS and dysmenorrhea—among them abdominal pain, gastrointestinal issues, nausea and mood changes. \r\n\r\nLevels of anandamide (AEA)—one of our body’s own cannabinoids that’s associated with emotional responses—are [influenced by levels of progesterone](http://www.jbc.org/content/278/35/32726.short) and [estrogen in women’s bodies](http://www.bloodjournal.org/content/100/12/4040.short?sso-checked=true). Moreover, research suggests that [AEA itself can be produced in the ovary](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2640464/) and is under hormonal control. These findings have implications for menopausal women, whose ovaries become less active and stop producing estrogen and progesterone, thereby causing a disruption in levels of AEA in the body. This imbalance may be tied to why women undergoing menopause are anecdotally finding relief with cannabis.\r\n\r\nMarijuana is also known to ease the symptoms that many women experience during menopause such as insomnia, mood swings and decreased sex drive; it may also play a role in the treatment of diseases that menopausal women are more susceptible to such as [osteoporosis](https://academic.oup.com/hmg/article/14/22/3389/614315) and [heart disease](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1038/sj.bjp.0707517/full). \r\n\r\nRELATED: [IS CANNABIS LESS EFFECTIVE DURING YOUR PERIOD?]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59dd94919ce4ed24c356c39e/is-cannabis-less-effective-during-your-period)\r\n\r\n### How Does Cannabis Fit Into a Traditional Treatment Regimen for PMS, Dysmenorrhea & Menopause?\r\n\r\nFor PMS and dysmenorrhea, traditional approaches to reduce abdominal cramping include taking over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs for pain, hormonal birth control to stop ovulation or antidepressants to help with mood changes. Some women find that cannabis’s multifaceted properties can supplement or even replace these OTC or prescription drugs. \r\n\r\nHormone replacement therapy (HRT) is commonly used to treat the symptoms of menopause, but its use is associated with a higher risk for blood clots, breast cancer and even Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, some women aren’t good candidates for this type of therapy if, for example, they have a current or past history of certain female cancers.\r\n\r\nWhile not much research has been done on the use of cannabis as a supplement or even replacement to HRT, existing studies pointing to cannabidiol’s (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol’s (THC) anti-proliferative actions on cancer cells, higher levels of “good” cholesterol in the blood as well as lower insulin levels in cannabis users, have led some women to augment or even replace their HRT regimen with marijuana. \r\n\r\n\r\n### What Ratios & Consumption Methods Are Best?   \r\n\r\nThere are no set cannabis dosages to alleviate the symptoms of PMS, dysmenorrhea and menopause, but a good place to start is with a product or strain that has a high CBD to THC ratio, due to CBD’s anti-inflammatory and mood-balancing properties. Since CBD doesn’t affect the brain in the same way as THC does, it can be a good tool for daytime use. For help with insomnia or severe pain, strains or products with a higher THC content may prove more successful than just CBD alone. \r\n\r\nVaping, ingestion of edibles and the use of topical salves are usually recommended methods of cannabis consumption for women with these conditions. Many women are advised not to smoke cigarettes if they’re on birth control, as smoking can increase the risk for stroke and heart attack. As well, smoking is known to decrease estrogen levels in men and women—a finding that’s especially important for menopausal women who already lack estrogen. Therefore, it’s generally recommended that women on birth control or those experiencing menopausal symptoms avoid smoking cannabis as a precaution. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Tanja Heffner](https://unsplash.com/@tanjaheffner)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/14b42/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg","srcSet":"/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/f836f/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg 200w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/2244e/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg 400w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/14b42/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg 800w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/47498/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg 1200w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/0e329/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg 1600w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/3b958/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.jpg 2600w","srcWebp":"/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/58556/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/61e93/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp 200w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/1f5c5/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp 400w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/58556/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp 800w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/99238/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp 1200w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/7c22d/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp 1600w,\n/static/dc88d4448761cb9fbf6f1f70588798a8/9b7ef/b5c84d184d3d82877610d43629e6d907.webp 2600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2317-markdown","title":"Is Cannabis Less Effective During Your Period?","slug":"is-cannabis-less-effective-during-your-period","content":"Cannabis has proven to be effective in managing and relieving pain. As such, it makes sense that [cannabis may also bring relief to women suffering from cramps, back pain, mood fluctuations and insomnia associated with their periods](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a4121d38323000065b0000/medical-marijuana-may-alleviate-symptoms-associated-with-pms). \n\nThat said, brands are introducing products for women suffering from PMS and dysmenorrhea, or painful periods. Whether it’s cannabis-infused suppositories, bath salts intended to ease cramping, or a topical to soothe back or stomach pain, cannabis products have gained in popularity as a means of relieving the pain and discomfort that often comes with that time of the month.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nIf you’ve ever tried using cannabis just before or during your period, you may find that you need more cannabis than usual to achieve the same effects. You ingest the same amount as you did the week prior to your premenstrual week, but somehow it doesn’t get the job done.\n\nWhy is this the case? Well, it seems estrogen may have something to do with it. In a study by Washington State University, researchers found that [female rats were 30% more likely to experience pain relief than male rats when their estrogen levels were at their peak](https://www.upi.com/Science_News/2014/09/03/Females-are-more-sensitive-to-cannabis-researchers-say/1921409778270/). Estrogen is at its highest during ovulation; it then takes a big dip during your premenstrual week and stays low throughout your period.\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA BRINGS RELIEF TO WOMEN SUFFERING FROM MENSTRUAL CRAMPS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55dcd66a3961660006470000/marijuana-brings-relief-to-women-suffering-from-pms-symptoms)\n\n### How Estrogen Affects THC\n\nEstrogen, a hormone most associated with a female’s menstrual cycle, has a unique relationship with cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis and occur naturally in our bodies. We have an entire system, [the endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system), designed to process cannabinoids and help regulate many of our biological processes, from sleeping and immune function to appetite, pain management and more.\n\nWhen we consume cannabis, estrogen helps break down the THC, or the cannabinoid in cannabis that makes us feel high, into a more potent chemical compound for our bodies to absorb. This is great when our estrogen levels are high throughout our monthly cycle. High levels of estrogen make it easier for the body to process THC efficiently, allowing a smaller amount of cannabis to be more effective. \n\nUnfortunately, our period comes when estrogen levels are at their lowest. That means there’s less estrogen available in your body to efficiently break down THC, so you may find yourself consuming more cannabis than usual to achieve the same results. \n\n### How Estrogen Affects Endocannabinoids\n\nEstrogen has another very special relationship with a cannabinoid our body naturally produces: anandamide. Anandamide is an endocannabinoid that reduces the symptoms of anxiety and depression, helping us feel more calm and euphoric. Our bodies also naturally produce anandamide’s enemy: fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH). \n\nFAAH is an enzyme that breaks down anandamide, the bliss molecule. But anandamide finds protection in estrogen, which makes it harder for FAAH to break down anandamide in the body. When estrogen levels are low, like they are just before and during your period, FAAH is freer to break down anandamide; this makes us more susceptible to depression, anxiety and mood swings. \n\n### Cannabis Solutions During Your Period\n\nLuckily, there are some pretty clear ways to battle the lowered effectiveness of cannabis just before and during our periods. The first, and perhaps most obvious, is increasing your cannabis intake when that dreaded week of the month comes around. With more product options available than ever before, you can keep your cannabis routine fresh and new. If you’re not keen on smoking cannabis, try dosing with a tincture or consuming a marijuana edible. Or look into a product from one of the many female-run cannabis businesses—such as Moxie Meds—that make options specifically for easing period pain. \n\nAnother option is mixing high-CBD products into your cannabis routine. CBD is a cannabinoid found in cannabis that helps block FAAH from breaking down anandamide, just as estrogen does. Remember, anandamide helps us feel good by alleviating anxiety and depression. When your estrogen levels are low during your period, it may help to supplement your system with more CBD. The CBD will do the work estrogen usually does, helping to regulate your mood and relieve inflammation. \n\nPhoto credit: [@entersge](https://unsplash.com/@entersge)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. 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