{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/women/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2759-markdown","title":"Cannabis May Ease Vaginal Infections & Their Symptoms","slug":"cannabis-may-ease-vaginal-infections-and-their-symptoms","content":"It’s never fun when things start going south down south. Unfortunately, the vagina is a moist, warm environment that can be an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Perhaps that’s why so many women suffer from vaginal infections every year. Whether you’re dealing with a singular or recurring yeast infection, bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis, the discomfort of the infection can be enough to send anyone over the edge. \n\n\n\nLet’s take a look at the different types of vaginal infections, how they’re traditionally treated and whether cannabis shows any promise managing the symptoms of these sometimes painful infections.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Are the Most Common Vaginal Infections? \n\nThere are many types of vaginal infections, but the good news is that virtually all of them are treatable. Three of the most common vaginal infections are: \n\n* **Bacterial vaginosis:** A very common infection caused by an imbalance or overgrowth of a bacteria called Gardnerella. Gardnerella is actually a naturally present bacterium in the vagina. But when it grows beyond its normal level, it can cause some serious discomfort like:\n\n>* Vaginal discharge\n* Odor\n* Itching\n\n* **Yeast infection:**  Yeast-based infections, also known as candidiasis, are the most common vaginal infections. Having a normal level of candida, the fungus associated with yeast infections, is nothing to worry about. Natural bacteria in your private parts will usually keep the growth of yeast under control. It’s only when the levels of yeast rise to a higher concentration that it can cause issues. These issues can include:\n\n>* Inflammation\n* Odor\n* Irritation\n* Itching\n* High levels of milky discharge\n\n* **Trichomoniasis:** Trichomoniasis is the only sexually transmitted infection on this list. It also happens to be the most commonly contracted curable sexually transmitted disease, [affecting 3.7 million Americans](https://www.cdc.gov/std/trichomonas/stdfact-trichomoniasis.htm). Trichomoniasis is caused by a microscopic parasite found in the vagina and urethral tissues. While it almost always affects women, it’s possible for men to get the infection as well. \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\n### Marijuana’s Antibacterial & Antifungal Properties Can Help Treat Vaginal Infections\n\nAll of the vaginal infections we’ve talked about come from the overgrowth or appearance of bacteria or fungus. Interestingly, certain cannabinoids, the natural chemical compounds found in cannabis, have shown antibacterial and antifungal properties. These properties could prove to be effective medicine for vaginal infections and their symptoms.\n\nIn one study from 2008, published in the _Journal of Natural Products_, researchers concluded that five major cannabinoids:\n\n* [Cannabidiol](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8dafa0f24d1300077ccb59/whats-so-great-about-cannabidiol-or-cbd) (CBD)\n* Cannabichromene (CBC)\n* Cannabigerol (CBG)\n* [Cannabinol](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a00c7e5462abf14dd36415f/having-trouble-sleeping-try-non-psychoactive-cbn) (CBN)\n\nall [show “potent activity” against bacteria like MRSA](https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/np8002673). \n\nThese results seem to, in part, back up a 1981 study from the _Journal of Clinical Pharmacology_, in which [CBC was tested as an antibacterial and antifungal on rats](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7298870). The researchers concluded that CBC has strong antibacterial activity and mild to moderate antifungal properties. \n\nThe _British Journal of Pharmacology_ went a bit further with a 2011 study, explaining that while CBD, CBG and CBC are all just moderate antifungal agents, these three cannabinoids [may increase the power of caryophyllene oxide, a highly effective antifungal](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/). According to the study, CBG and CBC both eradicated a common fungal infection in humans in 15 days. This is a comparable rate to many pharmaceutical antifungal drugs. \n\n### Cannabis’s Anti-Itch & Anti-inflammatory Properties Can Ease Vaginal Infection Symptoms\n\nThe power of cannabis as an anti-inflammatory is one of the most widely known medical applications of the plant. And while the body of research on cannabis as an anti-inflammatory isn’t directly connected to vaginal infections, much of the uncomfortable symptoms of vaginal infections are directly associated with inflammation. \n\nInflammation can not only cause pain, but also itching, which is a common symptom of most vaginal infections. A [study from the _Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology_ looked into the role of cannabinoids in dermatology](https://www.jaad.org/article/S0190-96221730308-0/abstract).\n\nThe lead researcher, Dr. Robert Dellavalle, noted that of all the applications for cannabinoids in dermatology, perhaps the “most promising role for cannabinoids is the treatment of itch.” Dr. Dellavalle notes that in one study, eight of 21 people who applied cannabinoid cream twice a day for three weeks saw a complete elimination of severe itching. \n\n### The One Way You Shouldn’t Use Cannabis to Treat Vaginal Infections\n\nResearch indicates [daily smoking of cannabis and/or tobacco can harm the ability of macrophages in the lungs to kill candida albicans](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/5737cde2d6b1ca000b000037/can-marijuana-help-with-yeast-infections), the fungus most commonly associated with yeast infections. \n\nIn a 2004 longitudinal cohort study by the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Case Western University, 1,248 women were observed over a 12-month period. The researchers concluded there was [an association between vaginal yeast colonization and marijuana use](https://www.pubfacts.com/detail/15516380/Vaginal-yeast-colonization-in-nonpregnant-women:-a-longitudinal-study) in the previous four months. That said, there was no indication that yeast levels were high enough to cause an infection. \n\nSo, while smoking cannabis may cause elevated levels of yeast, it has more to do with the smoking of plant matter than it does the plant matter itself. So, if you’re thinking of including marijuana in your vaginal infection treatment plan, go for a cannabis tincture or topical. \n\nA cannabis topical can be applied to the lower abdomen or back, which can sometimes feel painful and sore during a vaginal infection. Some topical marijuana products are designed specifically to be applied directly to the vagina, but with other cannabis topicals, be careful about applying them down there. The last thing you want to do is to further irritate the area. \n\nIf you want to try out a sublingual cannabis tincture, choose one that will target your needs. If you want something to reduce inflammation and itching, go for a high-CBD cannabis tincture. If you need something to dull the pain of the infection, you may want to try a product with a higher-THC content, depending on how well you tolerate the cannabinoid.  \n\nOverall, certain cannabinoids show promising antibacterial and antifungal power that could help treat vaginal infections. Or if you’re using traditional treatments like antibiotics or antifungal medication to treat a vaginal infection, cannabis could help manage the symptoms while you heal. \n\nPhoto credit: [Jorge J Restrepo A.](https://www.flickr.com/people/22012266@N02/)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/ee604/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.png","srcSet":"/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/69585/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.png 200w,\n/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/497c6/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.png 400w,\n/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/ee604/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.png 800w,\n/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/37eba/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.png 898w","srcWebp":"/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/58556/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/61e93/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.webp 200w,\n/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/1f5c5/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.webp 400w,\n/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/58556/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.webp 800w,\n/static/0411eaf0d136b77ab0f132c3fff16f37/a5b50/185212759bc193d1c5b5638ef2168bfc.webp 898w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2718-markdown","title":"Oh, My Aging Skin: How CBD Can Help","slug":"oh-my-aging-skin-how-cbd-can-help","content":"I’ve never wanted to be that mature woman whose response to “How are you?” was “Oh, my aching back.” I also didn’t want to look in the mirror and think, “Oh, my aging skin.” Since starting my day with a regular dose of cannabidiol (CBD) oil, I’m finding that the aches and pains that were becoming commonplace for me are now reduced. Lately, I’ve been thinking of exploring CBD topical creams for aging skin, so I asked several women about their experiences with CBD topicals.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Women Love Their CBD Topicals\n\nCBD topicals are typically creams, lotions, oils, ointments and salves. There are many to choose from in places where cannabis is legal, but Marie Peterson in Wyoming makes her own.\n\n“It helps my skin with breakouts due to hormonal changes and moisturizes for super-soft skin,” says Marie. She adds that in addition to helping her reduce skin irritations, CBD topicals have the added benefit of relieving underlying pain. Another bonus for Marie is that the CBD topicals help her grandson address his eczema better than the medications he was prescribed.\n\nCamille Ritchie in Vancouver says she uses a CBD-infused coconut oil on her face to treat eczema and for its anti-aging properties. She’s also using it to protect against another major cause of aging skin: the sun.\n\n“I’m trying [my CBD-infused coconut oil] as a sunscreen and after-sun treatment,” Camille explains. “I’m hoping it will help diminish dark spots too, but we shall see.”\n\nCamille says she saw fast, impressive results from the CBD topicals on her eczema and is waiting to see how well they help her on the aging skin front.\n\nWendy Pagaduan, founder of Clean Coconut Skincare & Wellness, points out that CBD—and the cannabis plant overall—is “packed full of vitamins, minerals, proteins and fatty acids, all of which encourage skin health.” Antioxidants may prevent or delay certain types of cell damage and can be found in foods and plants, including many fruits and vegetables. \n\nAccording to Wendy, CBD is also moisturizing and can reduce the itching that comes with dry skin. And she, too, mentioned how CBD topicals are effective for eczema as well as a natural way to treat other skin conditions.\n\n### Doctors Weigh In on CBD Topicals for Skin Issues\n\nI turned to a naturopath for a bit more about the skin-healing properties of CBD.\n\n“CBD is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial, so it could help with inflammatory skin conditions such as dermatitis as well as acne,” says Dr. Elaine M. Burns of Southwest Medical Marijuana Evaluation Center. \n\nElise Ho in Southern California holds two doctoral degrees, one in naturopathic psychology and the other in natural health. She uses a CBD-based anti-aging cream and is impressed with the results.\n\n“CBD does amazing things for your skin,” says Elise, echoing that it has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can help with acne and dry skin. “It can also help with the overall balance of your endocannabinoid system [when consumed],” she says. Achieving balance, or homeostasis, is paramount to maintaining a healthy body. \n\n### Quick Tips on Using CBD Topicals\n\nAny CBD product you choose will only be as good as its ingredients and manufacturing process. As with any skincare product, particularly for anti-aging, beware of exaggerated claims about what the product will do for you. Shop around for a reasonably priced product, but know that CBD topicals can be pricey, in the $50–100 range for a small container.\n\nWhen looking for a CBD topical, also consider the following:\n\n* Hemp-derived CBD products are the easiest to obtain and ship, but may not be as effective as whole-plant CBD topicals. Still, they're a great option for people living in states without marijuana laws on the books. \n\n* Check the other ingredients in your CBD topical to ensure you aren’t sensitive to anything else in the product.\n\n* Start by applying the CBD product to a small patch of skin, and wait 24 hours to see if you have a reaction. If you do, don’t apply further and seek out another product. CBD itself should not be reactive, but there’s no guarantee of this.\n\n* Store CBD products in a place with a stable temperature and away from extreme light, heat or moisture. You can also store CBD products in the refrigerator. Depending on the carrier substance—such as coconut oil—it might solidify when cold, but return to its original consistency at room temperature.\n\nBecause of the legal issues surrounding cannabis and CBD, make sure you know the difference between hemp-derived CBD and cannabis-derived CBD products with THC. While many people say “hemp-derived CBD is legal everywhere,” that’s not entirely accurate. It’s critical to know the law in your area as there’s some confusion around what you can order online depending on where you live. \n\nPhoto credit: [Marivi Pazos](https://unsplash.com/@marivi)\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAOABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAwX/xAAVAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABiv520sKD/8QAGhAAAwEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECAxESIf/aAAgBAQABBQKIdm2USdmi2bvxVyv/xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQMBAT8BcJ//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAgEBPwEFn//EABsQAAIBBQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABIQIQEjGR/9oACAEBAAY/AinGDbElAu2//8QAGxABAQEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAITFRgaH/2gAIAQEAAT8h5NgX3ula885VPppVNPZlHrUxAd//2gAMAwEAAgADAAAAEKsf/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREA/9oACAEDAQE/EGkmhv/EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAf/aAAgBAgEBPxDAqP/EAB0QAQACAgIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESFBMVFhkbH/2gAIAQEAAT8QEArTOiynFFkwL343OdQ6pFdzapnHEGDkuu6CvvuXpqzqf//Z","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/14b42/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg","srcSet":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/f836f/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/2244e/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 400w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/14b42/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 800w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/47498/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 1200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/0e329/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 1600w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/6995d/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.jpg 3637w","srcWebp":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/58556/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/61e93/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/1f5c5/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 400w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/58556/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 800w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/99238/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 1200w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/7c22d/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 1600w,\n/static/673277bc4551e8c39365c93a0e6c5ade/2a59d/86481eae9d069ee7d952fc0443a0e3b0.webp 3637w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2671-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Help Defend Against Endometrial Cancer?","slug":"can-cannabis-help-defend-against-endometrial-cancer","content":"Endometrial cancer (EC), the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S., is on the rise. This year, the American Cancer Society estimates 63,280 women will be diagnosed with EC, and 11,350 will die from the disease. \n\nExposure to too much estrogen is believed to play a major role in the development of EC, because it can stimulate endometrial cells to grow and potentially become malignant. Women who have an increased risk of EC are those who:\n\n* Use certain hormone replacement therapies (to treat menopause)\n* Have started menstruating at an early age\n* Never had children\n* Are overweight or obese particularly after menopause\n\nAll of these factors increase a woman’s overall lifetime exposure to estrogen. Women with endometriosis—a pro-inflammatory disease in which tissues normally found in the uterine lining grow outside the uterus—are also at an increased risk of EC. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Role Do Cannabinoids Play When it Comes to Cancer?\n\nBesides the well-known painkilling and anti-emetic effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in cancer patients, there’s mounting evidence that these cannabinoids may inhibit in-vitro growth of various types of tumor cells. Animal studies also show that THC and CBD may impair the ability of certain types of cancer cells to invade tissues and metastasize to other parts of the body.\n\nHowever, the scales tip more toward CBD in the growing number of preliminary studies showing its potential to stop the growth and expansion of cancer cells.\n\nRELATED: [CAN CANNABIS SWITCH OFF CANCER?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1362a0eea891000897e26a/can-cannabis-switch-off-cancer)\n\n### CBD Shows Therapeutic Promise With Hard-to-Treat Tumors\n\nIn a recent study, investigators from the University of Porto in Portugal tested the anti-cancer effects of THC and CBD in two endometrial cancer cell lines called Ishikawa and Hec50co. While Ishikawa is an estrogen-dependent EC cell line—meaning, it needs estrogen to continue to survive, Hec50co is able to develop other means of surviving without estrogen. ECs that don’t rely on estrogen to survive are more difficult to treat.\n\nResearchers also treated the EC cells with the endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). AEA and 2-AG are compounds chemically akin to CBD and THC in cannabis. \n\nWhat researchers found was that the cannabinoids worked in various ways to kill EC cells. In estrogen-dependent EC, AEA and CBD induced apoptosis—a process of programmed cell death—by activating a receptor called transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1(TRPV1). TRPV1 is involved in the transmission and modulation of pain. Previous studies have shown that CBD’s action to reduce sensitivity to pain is through this receptor.\n\nThey also found that when estrogen-independent EC cells were treated with AEA and CBD, it resulted in a drastic cytotoxic—toxic to cells—effect, independent of TRPV1. Meanwhile, THC treatment didn’t have any effect on either EC cell line, and none of the cannabinoids had any effect on normal, non-cancerous cells.\n\nThe University of Porto researchers concluded that CBD and CBD-rich extracts may be more promising than THC for the potential treatment of endometrial tumors. These findings show that CBD is effective in inhibiting tumor cell growth regardless of whether the tumor needs estrogen to grow.\n\nOf course, more studies are needed to test these findings. However, this outcome suggests that CBD could have potential as a therapeutic agent for these hard-to-treat tumors.\n\nRELATED: [CBD: THE MEDICINE OF THE FUTURE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56c52e887c6109000800009a/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future)\n\n### Can CBD Be Used to Treat Endometrial Cancer?\n\nClinical studies are needed to determine the potential efficacy and dose of CBD as a therapy for EC in humans. It may be that CBD could be used in combination with current EC therapies to enhance their tumor-killing actions. It should be noted that at this point, there’s absolutely no evidence in humans to support women solely using CBD to treat their EC.\n\n### Should Women Use Cannabis to Reduce the Risk of Endometrial Cancer?\n\nCannabis may help protect against EC and perhaps other cancers by lowering inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation of tissues may lead to cellular DNA damage that could ultimately transform into cancer. This may be particularly relevant for women with endometriosis, which is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects endometrial tissues. Although THC wasn’t shown to inhibit the growth of EC cells in the University of Porto study, both CBD and THC are potent anti-inflammatory agents that can help reduce inflammation.\n\nLowering circulating estrogen levels may also reduce risk of EC. Early studies in rats have found that acute administration of THC or AEA resulted in lower circulating estrogen levels. So, daily consumption of tinctures containing CBD and THC may help lower EC risk by reducing inflammation and circulating estrogen levels.\n\n### Other Ways Women Can Guard Against Endometrial Cancer\n\nKeep a healthy weight. Consuming an anti-inflammatory, anti-estrogenic diet can further protect against EC. Foods to avoid include:\n\n* Sugar\n* Red meat\n* Alcohol\n* Highly estrogenic foods such as soy and flaxseed\n\nFoods to eat more of include:\n\n* Green and other colored vegetables\n* Cruciferous vegetables\n* Foods containing anti-inflammatory and anti-estrogenic flavonoids such as green tea, apples and onions\n\nWomen may also want to add a specific type of seaweed to their daily diets. In animal, human and cell studies, which I conducted, an edible brown seaweed from the Maine coast called Fucus vesiculosus (aka bladderwrack) was found to have anti-estrogenic action and tumor-killing properties that can fight against endometrial, breast and ovarian cancer cells. It was also found that bladderwrack can effectively reduce pain and heavy menstrual bleeding in women with endometriosis. \n\nBesides regulating circadian rhythms and reproduction, melatonin has shown promising results as an anti-inflammatory, anti-estrogen and anti-cancer agent. Studies have also shown that it reduces inflammation and may help slow the spread of endometriosis. Because of its popularity as a sleep aid, a number of melatonin supplements are now currently on the market. \n\nIncorporating cannabis along with other dietary and lifestyle measures may help reduce a woman’s risk of EC, as well as provide other healthful benefits. That said, women experiencing any abnormal uterine bleeding or changes to their menstrual cycles should immediately consult with a physician.\n\nPhoto credit: [Ant rozetsky](https://unsplash.com/search/photos/ant-rozetsky)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/14b42/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/f836f/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/2244e/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 400w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/14b42/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 800w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/47498/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/0e329/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/b56c7/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.jpg 3640w","srcWebp":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/58556/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/61e93/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/1f5c5/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 400w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/58556/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 800w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/99238/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 1200w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/7c22d/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 1600w,\n/static/b686a007604f77b0e88189a5e82e2fcb/fe53a/597ce06999ab95f7da1d6d9be8251edc.webp 3640w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2668-markdown","title":"How Women Can Use Marijuana as a Mood Lifter","slug":"how-women-can-use-marijuana-as-a-mood-lifter","content":"Mood swings, anxiety, depression—women approaching or over 40 often find that hormonal changes can wreak havoc on their mental and emotional state. And you thought PMS was bad. \n\nWhile our moodiness isn’t always related to hormones, there’s a scientific reason behind a woman’s typical hormonal mood swings. Science can also show us why cannabis can be helpful in bringing those hormones into check.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nI recently learned from Dr. Lakisha Jenkins, a naturopathic doctor and founding member of the [California Cannabis Industry Association](http://www.cacannabisindustry.org/), that as we age, our [endocrine system](https://www.livescience.com/26496-endocrine-system.html)—like all of our internal systems—doesn’t work as well as it should. Technically speaking, the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which are responsible for hormone production, can get out of whack. The result is an unpleasant rage of hormones.\n\nDr. Jenkins explains that our endocannabinoid system (ECS) affects our endocrine system as it does other systems throughout our bodies. Cannabis and its cannabinoids and terpenes can positively affect our ECS, bringing it into homeostasis or balance. When our ECS is more balanced, our endocrine system can be, too.\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\n### Women Report Marijuana Helps in Dealing With Moods\n\nWhether or not they know the science of the endocrine system and the ECS, women are finding that cannabis can help alleviate their negative emotional state, the kind that stems from unbalanced hormones.\n\n“Cannabis has been a huge help in my sometimes pretty severe depression,” says Laurie Wolf, founder of gourmet cannabis edibles company [Laurie + MaryJane](http://www.laurieandmaryjane.com/). “No matter how bad my day or dark mood, eating or smoking cannabis has _always_ improved my mood.”\n\nAt 52, Carolynn King in Colorado says she’s dealing with general irritability. “I’m irritable at everything and everybody for no reason. I can feel it coming down on me, and I hate everybody,” she says, attributing her moods to peri-menopause. \n\nJill Trinchero, founder of [SDK Snacks](http://www.sdksnacks.com/), a cannabis edibles company in Oregon, says she was motivated to create her line of cookies, vegan raw coconut bites and savory crackers to help with her own anxiety as well as the stress of parenting.\n\n“As a stay-at-home mom, I didn’t want to smoke and knew that consuming cannabis helped me be more present with my kids and deal with OCD and anxiety,” Jill says. “I didn’t want to be in that state, because it stresses people around me out; it stresses my kids.”\n\n### Best Forms of Cannabis Consumption for Better Moods\n\nWomen’s marijuana consumption preferences vary depending on the elevated mood they seek. \n\nFor Laurie, edibles are her favorite intake method, but she says smoking a joint is fun and a better option when she wants immediate results. \n\nCarolyn says vaping and edibles both help with her irritability.\n\nJill usually has a 5 mg edible. “I’m not laid out on the couch. I can still function for my kids and work and everything—with just a low-dose cookie,” she says.\n\nMarie P. in Wyoming has been dealing with hormonal issues since having a hysterectomy at 27. Now at 57, she smokes and consumes marijuana edibles to relax. “It’s helped my moods and also helps me sleep,” she says. “I have been dealing with this for years, but cannabis helps better than anything.”\n\nAccording to Dr. Jenkins, sublingual or oral forms of cannabis can provide more instantaneous results. “When you ingest an edible, it goes through your entire digestive system, so you’d have to be pretty precise with the number of milligrams you consume,” she explains. “And you’d need to know what your metabolism is like that day, even if your digestive system is sluggish, because hormones affect digestion. Edibles are not as specialized or dialed in.”\n\nTinctures, on the other hand, come with a dropper so you can titrate your dose, measuring out the number of drops to find your “personal sweet spot,” as Dr. Jenkins puts it. That personal sweet spot can also vary not just from woman to woman, but from time of day to the period of the month. Even in full menopause, Dr. Jenkins says, our bodies still follow a cycle. \n\n### Cannabis Strains for a Better Mood\n\nIn terms of marijuana strains, every woman has her own preferences similar to having a preferred form of consumption. \n\n“I tend to go towards indica-dominant or pure indica strains,” Laurie says. “There are times when certain sativas make me feel uncomfortably racy, occasionally paranoid. There are plenty of sativas I love. It's really only an occasional unpleasant experience.”\n\nJill says she goes with an indica because of her anxiety. Some sativas can exacerbate her anxious feelings, making her even more hyper alert.\n\nCarolynn says that her favorite strain is [Grape Ape](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce671d520d60009f4f4c0/grape-ape). “That just makes me happy. I’ve not found another strain that makes me as happy as Grape Ape,” she says.\n\nMarie’s preferred marijuana strains include [Blue Dream](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a70be4e6c30440008cafd14/blue-dream) and [Northern Lights](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce57ed520d60009f4f4bb/northern-lights). She finds they mellow her out and don’t make her want to eat everything in sight.\n\n### Going Beyond Strains When Choosing Cannabis\n\nStrains may be a common way to pick your cannabis, but don’t limit your exploration based on strains, says Dr. Jenkins. “Unfortunately, strains can’t always run as true as they should,” she explains. “Look at cannabinoid and terpene profiles as well.”\n\nDr. Jenkins’ advice for picking the right cannabis product includes:\n\n* Looking for cannabidiol (CBD)-rich strains as CBD plays a strong role in balancing hormones \n\n* Making sure that the CBD-rich strain you choose also has [tetrahydrocannabolic acid (THCA)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a90bb3ef24d1300077ccb60/how-to-make-the-most-of-non-psychoactive-thca) to activate the CBD\n\n* Looking for terpenes that are uplifting, like [limonene](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8e1261f24d1300077ccb5b/know-your-cannabis-terpenes-limonene)\n\n* Knowing that if you have ADD or ADHD, indicas that are normally body relaxing could affect you more like a sativa that’s more cerebral and stimulating—meaning an indica’s effects could be reversed, so be aware\n\n“Do a lot of research and know yourself, know your body, know what _you_ need,” Dr. Jenkins advises. “Then take the research, and go on your road of self-discovery to find what’s right for you. Individuality takes precedence over any traditional medicine you take, especially cannabis.”\n\nWhat do you consume when your moods are darker or edgier than you’d like? What lifts your moods? Let us know in the comments below. \n\nPhoto credit: [Nicklas Hamann](https://unsplash.com/@lxsy)\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.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/14b42/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/f836f/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/2244e/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 400w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/14b42/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 800w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/47498/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/0e329/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/8182b/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.jpg 3651w","srcWebp":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/58556/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/61e93/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/1f5c5/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 400w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/58556/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 800w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/99238/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 1200w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/7c22d/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 1600w,\n/static/b8bd7408a12a70ede25f44e0720fd2d3/208dd/a6887b7f353f8b2559c3037a309fb60f.webp 3651w","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_2643-markdown","title":"Menopause & Painful Sex: How Cannabis Can Help","slug":"menopause-and-painful-sex-how-cannabis-can-help","content":"Menopause may cause painful sex. There, I said it. Sex often hurts once your body changes due to the hormone fluctuations brought about by menopause. But painful sex isn’t the only symptom or result of the menopause process.\n\nSince I’m not a doctor or an expert on menopause, I turned to a trusted advisor of mine: Dr. Elaine Burns, founder and medical director of Southwest Medical Marijuana Evaluation Center and founder of DrBurns’ ReLeaf tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) products. Dr. Burns was working with bio-identical hormones for women before she entered the cannabis industry seven years ago. I asked her about cannabis and specifically CBD for women’s sexual health during peri-menopause and post-menopause.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nFirst, Dr. Burns wanted to get across that menopause is a “multifactorial issue,” meaning no woman can expect that what worked for someone else will work for them, too. She also emphasized that cannabis can be part of an overall health-care plan that could include botanicals (such as black cohosh, evening primrose and chamomile) for women before menopause or bio-identicals—non-synthetic, all-natural hormone replacements—for women no longer experiencing menses. She would never solely recommend cannabis or CBD to relieve menopausal symptoms.\n\n### Menopause Can Negatively Affect Sexual Activity & Pleasure\n\nSome of the main complaints women have during menopause that could adversely affect sexual activity and sexual pleasure include:\n\n* Painful sex, usually stemming from vaginal dryness and thinning of vaginal walls, both signs of depleted estrogen\n\n* Low libido that could be caused by changing hormones, but also from lack of restful sleep\n\n* Mental and emotional aspects of menopause including depression and anxiety, also exacerbated by sleeplessness\n\nWhen I look at this list, I realize how I’ve experienced some of these symptoms myself. Previously, I wrote about my own sleep issues and how cannabis helped me get a good night’s sleep, which in turn reduced my depression. Being well rested and feeling good mentally can do wonders for your sex life.\n\nDepending on your health goals, marijuana—and specifically CBD—can be integrated into your overall care plan to alleviate specific menopause symptoms and also help with general good health as you age.\n\n### How Can CBD Help Women Through Menopause?\n\nAccording to Dr. Burns, there are two parts of support during menopause. First, women look for relief from unpleasant symptoms ranging from vaginal dryness to hot flashes to painful sex. After those symptoms recede, the longer-term conversation with a health-care provider should be about the prevention of diseases such as osteoporosis. \n\nLooking more closely at some of the symptoms of menopause that can affect your sex life, here’s how cannabis might help:\n\n* **Lubricants:** THC and CBD in a lubricating carrier like coconut oil can not only help with vaginal dryness to address painful sex, but the THC in particular can also be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream to produce relaxation, heightened sexual arousal, and greater sensitivity and sensation. \n\n* **Vaping:** Vaporizing whole plant extracts or marijuana flower can help ease anxiety, lift mood and improve sleep. Good sleep means more energy for good sex, right? \n\n* **Tinctures:** When taken sublingually, cannabis tinctures using the whole plant can produce similar effects to that of vaping over a longer period of time. Note that some sexual lubricants are actually produced as edibles, so they can be introduced vaginally, topically and orally.\n\n* **Indica strains:** These types of marijuana strains are ideal for relaxation and relieving some of the sleep and emotional issues that could be barriers to sexual pleasure. But when you’re choosing your indica strain or indica cannabis product, choose a whole plant product when you can, for better results. Dr. Burns calls extracts that isolate THC or CBD “neutral strains”—not fully indica or indica hybrids—because they lack the complete profile of terpenes and cannabinoids that work well with our bodies. \n\n### One Woman’s Cannabis & Sex Story\n\nI sought out a woman who could speak about her own experiences with cannabis for sexual health and connected with Cyo Ray Nystrom, the founder and CEO of QuimRock, a cannabis-infused self-care line for women’s intimate care. Cyo says cannabis can be “powerful sex-medicine for anyone using it intentionally and with her own personal needs in mind.” \n\n“I personally faced quite the battle with my vagina the minute I started having sex,” Cyo recalls. “I've had years of awful UTIs, forcing me to take intense rounds of antibiotics that, in turn, killed off all the natural vaginal flora and caused yeast infections. It affected my life and sex life greatly as vaginal health is such an important part of intimacy and sex for so many people.”\n\nCyo also notes that the shame that's historically associated with vaginal health issues, including those related to menopause, can be “particularly scarring.” \n\n“Personally, cannabis has always been a great tool for getting me into my body, which is essential for me to really show up in my sex life,” Cyo explains, adding, “Cannabis has helped me in many ways—from cramp relief after getting a UTI to pain relief-focused topicals to the amazing benefits of cannabis-infused lubricants.”\n\nWhen it comes to cannabis, there’s no “one strain and consumption method fits all.” How you address menopausal symptoms and sexual health is as individual as each woman is. \n\nAs Cyo reminds us, “It’s hugely important to figure out what turns you on and what turns you off.” And that takes time and trying different things. Just as menopause is a journey, so is naturally addressing your sexual health with botanicals like cannabis.\n\nWhat has your sexual health journey through menopause been like so far? Have you used cannabis to help with any of the symptoms of menopause? Let us know in the comments below.\n\nPhoto credit: [Maru Lombardo](https://unsplash.com/@marustereo)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/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":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/14b42/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/f836f/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/2244e/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 400w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/14b42/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 800w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/47498/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/0e329/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/511f8/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.jpg 3504w","srcWebp":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/58556/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/61e93/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/1f5c5/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 400w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/58556/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 800w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/99238/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 1200w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/7c22d/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 1600w,\n/static/a8d8ee7c8bc1727a377ccf7ece7b751a/ab2ae/2231a45f7779f086bfa0c68afd58d17a.webp 3504w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2612-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Helped Solve My Menopause-Induced Insomnia","slug":"how-cannabis-helped-solve-my-menopause-induced-insomnia","content":"When I began going into menopause, I wasn't sure what to do. All I knew is that I didn't want to take pharmaceuticals to treat what was a natural process in the female human body—the end of menstruation.  \r\n\r\nThe worst symptoms for me were depression, insomnia, night sweats and hair loss. Soaking wet pajamas woke me up in the middle of the night and usually resulted in full body rashes. My insomnia was not helping my depression. To say I was miserable would be an understatement. I tried modifying how I ate and began yoga to ease some of the symptoms I was experiencing, but I wasn’t finding 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\nI read about cannabis and how it could be used for relaxation and as a sleep aid. Coming from the “Just Say No” generation, the idea of buying and smoking “pot” seemed wrong to me, but so did suffering for months on end.\r\n\r\nFinally, I pushed through my fear, got a medical marijuana card and learned to vape from a woman I know. I was terrified, paranoid and felt completely out of my element using cannabis as medicine in my 50s—but I wanted to feel better. \r\n\r\nThe first night I vaped a little cannabis before bedtime, I slept through the night. When I woke up the next morning after uninterrupted sleep, I cried from relief. With more sleep, many of my other menopause and stress-related symptoms began to diminish.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE INS AND OUTS OF VAPING MEDICAL MARIJUANA](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a1f473a100a820006562eb3/the-ins-and-outs-of-vaping-medical-marijuana)\r\n\r\n### Cannabis Tinctures Can Help for Menopause-Related Insomnia\r\n\r\nI’m not the only woman whose found relief from menopause-related insomnia through the use of cannabis. \r\n\r\nKim in Alaska began having problems sleeping through the night when she started menopause. \r\n\r\n“I would wake after five hours and not be able to return to sleep,” she recalls. “I tried many over-the-counter herbs and essential oils with mixed results.”\r\n\r\nHer sleep issues were compounded by her day job where she was constantly on the computer. This would cause her hands to tingle and fall asleep at night, which would wake her up and interrupt her sleep cycles.\r\n\r\n“I tried cannabis in tincture form to see if I could find some relief, and it helped,” Kim says. “My hands no longer wake me up, and I sleep through most nights.” Kim says she uses any indica strain tinctures to aid in a more restful night.\r\n\r\n### Powdered Cannabis & THC Pills for Sleep\r\n\r\nAshley in Colorado says her sleepless nights were caused by a combination of stress and [perimenopause](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/perimenopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20354666). Being a more regular consumer of cannabis, she didn’t feel that smoking was doing the trick in terms of promoting sleep. \r\n\r\nAfter some research and recommendations, she found two products, Ripple by Stillwater Brands and Altus, were well-suited for her.\r\n\r\n“They help me mellow out, lower my stress level and ease me into a more restful sleep,” says Ashley.\r\n\r\nRipple is a powdered, water-soluble tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) product while Altus makes pills in addition to gummies and topicals. The product Ashley found more sleep-inducing were the indica-dominant 5 mg pills, although it took some time for her to find her optimal dose.\r\n\r\n### Best Marijuana Strains for Sleep\r\n\r\nDepending on whom you ask, you’ll hear a variety of opinions and experiences around consuming cannabis for sleep. Some strains that seem to come up regularly from women I’ve spoken with and cannabis consultants alike as ideal for deep relaxation and slumber include Skywalker, Afghan Kush, and [Northern Lights](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce57ed520d60009f4f4bb/northern-lights).\r\n\r\n### Tips for Solving Menopause-Related Sleep Issues With Cannabis\r\n\r\nEvery person’s body is different, so what works for one woman may not work for you. If menopause is disrupting your sleep, here are some things you can do:\r\n\r\n* **Monitor your sleep using an app.** Apps like SleepCycle, FitBit and Sleep Better, or a wearable device like FitBit or Misfit can be great tools for understanding how you sleep—or don’t sleep. By tracking your personal sleep data, you’ll gain a better understanding of what else besides hormones might be affecting your sleep including food, beverages—especially alcohol, electronics, sugar and pain.\r\n* **Keep a journal.** Record your marijuana consumption as you try different strains and forms of cannabis to address your sleep issues. Keep track of each product and watch your sleep data to see which ones are working for you.\r\n* **Have patience.** The right strain, intake form and amount are unique to each individual and can be affected by many factors including weight, frequency of cannabis use, metabolism and more. So don’t give up if you don’t find the right product right away.\r\n\r\nThe more you understand your sleep cycles and can spend the time finding the ideal cannabis strain, form and dose, the more likely you are to get a good night’s sleep. For me, my surefire sleep solution is a few puffs from a vape pen with an indica or indica-dominate strain. Let me know in the comments below what you use to help alleviate insomnia from menopause.\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":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/14b42/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg","srcSet":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/f836f/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/2244e/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 400w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/14b42/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 800w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/47498/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 1200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/0e329/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 1600w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/86636/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.jpg 2630w","srcWebp":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/58556/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/61e93/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/1f5c5/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 400w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/58556/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 800w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/99238/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 1200w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/7c22d/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 1600w,\n/static/500f4fc1b871ba83ce97416068694cfd/6e55b/f38a3e5b20ea5e22ad0067eda0a4c037.webp 2630w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2617-markdown","title":"Can Mothers Turn to Cannabis to Ease Postpartum Depression? ","slug":"can-mothers-turn-to-cannabis-to-ease-postpartum-depression","content":"Pregnancy and motherhood can be wonderful—but both come with distinct challenges. For thousands of recent mothers, the reality of their new life manifests in postpartum depression (PPD). The most commonly cited statistics about moms suffering from PPD in America are probably flawed. According to Health & Human Services, [15% of mothers in the United States suffer from postpartum depression](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3918890/#R14).\r\n\r\nBut this number is almost certainly low; it only accounts for women who report their symptoms. This statistic also doesn’t include those who’ve experienced miscarriage, stillbirth or postpartum psychosis. Postpartum Progress a community for women suffering from postpartum mood disorders, reports [nearly 950,000 women in America experience postpartum depression every year](http://www.postpartumprogress.com/). \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\nIf Postpartum Progress’ number is more accurate, then nearly one million American women are experiencing PPD right now. So, what are their lives like and what treatments are available to them?\r\n\r\n### What Is Postpartum Depression?\r\n\r\nPPD is a psychiatric major depressive disorder that affects women most commonly in the first six months after giving birth. According to Health & Human Services, the [psychosocial risk factors associated with PPD](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11570712) include:\r\n\r\n* Major depressive disorders before or during pregnancy \r\n* Anxiety during pregnancy\r\n* Medical complications during pregnancy or birth \r\n* Stressful life events during pregnancy \r\n* Poor social support \r\n* Marital conflict \r\n* Low income\r\n* Immigrant status\r\n* Past alcohol or substance abuse issues\r\n* Young maternal age\r\n\r\nA woman’s hormone levels change significantly during and after pregnancy. The rise and fall of hormones can cause mood issues, including depressive thoughts and erratic behavior. In the first couple weeks immediately after giving birth, [it’s normal for up to 85% of mothers to experience the “baby blues.”](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3918890/) From a biochemical perspective, women experience a dramatic drop in both estrogen and progesterone after delivery. Lowered levels of both of these hormones can cause a period of mood swings, sleep issues, anxiety and depression. \r\n\r\nBecoming a mother is a major upheaval for both brain and body. There are an immense number of changes and physical trauma that need time to heal. Not to mention new moms are typically sleep and nutrition deprived, two things that can make women more vulnerable to the baby blues and, ultimately, PPD. \r\n\r\n### Symptoms of Postpartum Depression\r\n\r\nHow do you know if you have PPD? If the baby blues persist for longer than one month after birth, the odds are you’re dealing with postpartum depression. \r\n\r\n Other symptoms include:\r\n\r\n* Feeling defeated and being constantly overwhelmed\r\n* Guilt about your performance as a mother\r\n* Lack of bonding with your baby\r\n* Feelings of anger \r\n* Numbness \r\n* Lack of appetite or need to over eat \r\n* Too much or far too little sleep\r\n* Thoughts of suicide or violence \r\n\r\n### Common Treatments for Postpartum Depression\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to PPD, some of the most common treatments offered by doctors today are prescribing Prozac, Xanax, Valium, Ativan and Ambien. These pharmaceutical drugs are intended to counteract depressive thoughts and anxiety, and to encourage sleep. But these medications also come with some pretty serious side effects, from irritability to blurred vision and cognitive impairment. What’s worse is these drugs can also lead to dependency and addiction. \r\n\r\nIf a woman does decide to try pharmaceuticals to treat PPD, they may work for a while. But eventually, you can build up tolerances to these medications thereby eroding their effectiveness. The combination of these factors leaves some women feeling desperate for help but without any viable solutions. \r\n\r\n### Marijuana for Postpartum Depression\r\n\r\nLet’s begin with a clear disclaimer: HelloMD doesn’t promote cannabis ingestion of any kind for women who are breastfeeding. Current research suggests that cannabinoids are passed through breast milk to children and can result in negative side effects for babies. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [IS CANNABIS SAFE FOR BREASTFEEDING MOMS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8a1474f24d1300077ccb50/is-cannabis-safe-for-breastfeeding-moms)\r\n\r\nBut for women who are suffering from PPD and aren’t breastfeeding, cannabis could be a better and safer alternative to other anti-anxiety and anti-depression drugs that are commonly prescribed. It’s well known that, with the right dose, cannabis is an [effective anti-depressant](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c101d766653800060c0000/depression-sufferers-find-relief-in-medical-marijuana) for both men and women.\r\n\r\nBut when it comes to new mothers, there’s a specific reason why cannabis can be a godsend for those struggling with depression. And like most things about women’s health, it’s all about hormones. \r\n\r\nWhen estrogen and progesterone levels drop as they do immediately after giving birth, women can experience uneven mood, just like what happens during a woman’s period. Mood issues arise because, in part, low estrogen levels mean low anandamide levels. \r\n\r\nAnandamide is an endocannabinoid that helps regulate mood and appetite and creates feelings of joy—hence its nickname “the bliss molecule.” [Anandamide is responsible for all sorts of good feelings](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a949d06f24d1300077ccb66/eating-anandamide-the-bliss-molecule), like a runner’s high during exercise or the euphoria you feel when taking a big bite out of a chocolate bar. \r\n\r\nSo, odds are most new mothers, thanks to their whacky hormone levels, are operating with very low levels of anandamide. Luckily, cannabis can help right this imbalance. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive cannabinoid in cannabis, happens to share an almost identical chemical structure with anandamide and interacts with the same receptors throughout the body. And cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabinoid known for its lack of psychoactive effects, helps block the breakdown of the natural anandamide in our bodies. \r\n\r\nIn short, THC replaces anandamide in the body, and CBD protects what little natural anandamide new mothers have. Cannabis is also known to help with [sleep](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55e5c6573236300006350000/medical-marijuana-could-help-insomniacs-sleep-better), [anxiety](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a40a5f66313700063c0000/does-marijuana-ease-anxiety) and [decreased appetite](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5632b5db1e481f000c000036/the-science-of-getting-the-munchies-and-why-it-helps-the-critically-ill), three additional symptoms of PPD. \r\n\r\nWhile cannabis may not cure postpartum depression, it can help relieve its symptoms. In a HelloMD interview with [Foria](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/5760c7d0e4599e00070000d7/foria), a leading cannabis brand focused on women’s health, the Foria team expressed the positive outcomes that many of their clients had when using CBD to battle postpartum depression. For mothers who aren’t breastfeeding, cannabis could be the natural treatment option for easing PPD. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Laura Lee Moreau](https://unsplash.com/@laura_lee)\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,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAOABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFgABAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABQAC/8QAFAEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAP/aAAwDAQACEAMQAAABMUE0Jxsf/8QAGhAAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAxESBP/aAAgBAQABBQLs73WBb6HVzF3ANn//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEf/aAAgBAwEBPwFX/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABH/2gAIAQIBAT8BR//EABoQAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABAhASIXH/2gAIAQEABj8CE8UNRnrlOv/EABsQAAIDAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESExUWFx/9oACAEBAAE/IYmTS6L0lXomnHDVzyNQwesyf//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQBN//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAwEBPxAY/8QAFhEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAFh/9oACAECAQE/EEy//8QAGhAAAgMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASEAETFBYf/aAAgBAQABPxC7Q8cEo/TUcdO75CF5MAvCnAIzdLAEewRuUuAdZP/Z","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/14b42/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg","srcSet":"/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/f836f/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg 200w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/2244e/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg 400w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/14b42/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg 800w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/47498/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg 1200w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/0e329/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg 1600w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/85195/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.jpg 2700w","srcWebp":"/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/58556/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/61e93/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp 200w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/1f5c5/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp 400w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/58556/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp 800w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/99238/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp 1200w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/7c22d/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp 1600w,\n/static/559de11a9e940490bdab1c4913f0117c/a9f42/8490900fd679f0f4ac25626b12195693.webp 2700w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2598-markdown","title":"Ellementa Women Talk About Sex & Cannabis","slug":"ellementa-women-talk-about-sex-and-cannabis","content":"You may have heard that marijuana and sex go well together—especially for women—but if you’re thinking of trying out this concept for the first time, wouldn’t it be helpful to talk to someone with experience in the matter?\r\n\r\nEnter [Ellementa](http://ellementa.com/), a women’s network that’s focused on health, wellness and cannabis. There are 23 Ellementa groups located throughout the country, even in areas that aren’t known for their burgeoning cannabis cultures—places like Georgia, Michigan and Illinois—though most of its chapters are in California. \r\n\r\nThese groups host local gatherings that bring together women of all ages and backgrounds to talk about cannabis as it relates to their physical and emotional health. Each gathering is a based on a theme and usually hosts a guest (or guests) from the cannabis industry. \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\nEllementa’s most recent event was held at WestSide Art House in San Francisco and showcased the ever-popular topic of sex and cannabis. Guests for the event included Cyo Ray Nystrom, the CEO and cofounder of [Quim Rock](https://www.quimrock.com/), a company that makes a cannabis vaginal topical; and Maria Lara, a marriage and family therapist who also trains budtenders. Attendees included both women in the cannabis industry and those who were simply interested in learning more about the plant. \r\n\r\nHere are highlights from the sex and cannabis event: \r\n\r\n#### **CBD’s ant-inflammatory properties have applications in sex**\r\n\r\nAccording to Cyo, we think of cannabis—and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in particular—as a sexual stimulant: It heightens awareness, increases sensations and can make it easier to climax (though that’s not the only reason for having sex, she adds). But THC’s counterpart, cannabidiol (CBD) can also be used to quell inflammation post-sex, especially after a long love-making session. \r\n\r\n#### **Sex doesn’t have to be a partnered activity**\r\n\r\n “One of the most important things cannabis can help with is getting us used to our own bodies,” says Maria. “Growing up, we often get the message that sex is bad, so you might have stuff attached to it.”\r\n\r\nCannabis can be used to relax your mind and get you in the mood for self-experimentation. It can also help us work through any discomfort that we associate with sex or a particular sexual activity. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [TOP 5 CANNABIS STRAINS TO INCREASE YOUR SEX DRIVE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a80d19af24d1300077ccb3f/top-5-cannabis-strains-to-increase-your-sex-drive)\r\n\r\n“[Cannabis] fosters the relationship between yourself and your sexuality,” says Maria. She adds that we oftentimes have to discover what works for us on our own time before we can be with a partner, and cannabis is a great tool to help you in this self-discovery. \r\n\r\n#### **Linalool might get you in the mood**\r\n\r\nLinalool, a terpene found in cannabis and many other plants, might help get you going. We know that THC gets you high, but we now think that terpenes determine the nature of that high. According to Maria, linalool is thought to induce relaxation and be a mood enhancer—all great properties to help get you in the right mindset.\r\n\r\n#### **Ask yourself: What turns you on?**\r\n\r\n“The real question is: What makes you horny?” says Cyo. “I know … [cannabis] that’s more indica-heavy will help a lot of people get into their bodies, but that would just put me right to sleep.”\r\n\r\nCyo adds that she needs something with more sativa-like effects because she sees her brain as an erogenous zone. She advises that we ask ourselves what we’re looking for in our sexual experiences. Once we’ve figured that out, we’re in a better position to choose cannabis products that can help us meet our goals. \r\n\r\nMeanwhile, in her work as a budtender, Maria notes that folks interested in using cannabis as an aphrodisiac usually have to try a few products before they find a good match. \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/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/ee604/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png","srcSet":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/69585/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/497c6/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 400w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/ee604/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 800w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/f3583/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 1200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/0dadc/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.png 1500w","srcWebp":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/58556/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/61e93/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/1f5c5/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 400w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/58556/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 800w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/99238/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 1200w,\n/static/2a07eddbbd7670337c1e7608e20a1cc7/90fb1/0b145b14f7fddf4becfc9fcb867dd368.webp 1500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2575-markdown","title":"Is Cannabis Safe for Breastfeeding Moms?","slug":"is-cannabis-safe-for-breastfeeding-moms","content":"When considering that medical patients use cannabis to find relief from nausea and pain every day, it’s not hard to imagine how the herb might impact maternal care. From conception through to the post-partum period, pregnant women and nursing mothers experience symptoms ranging from irksome to debilitating.\r\nWhile a woman’s instinct might be to turn to cannabis for relief from first trimester nausea or post-partum pain, the topic engenders a lot of controversy and differing opinions. Though [29 states have legalized some form of medical marijuana](http://norml.org/legal/medical-marijuana-2), a dearth of medical research on maternal care offers mothers few answers on whether cannabis is safe for them. \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### Medical Studies on Maternal Care & Marijuana Use \r\n\r\nIttai Bushlin, MD/PhD, at the Department of Child Neurology at the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), is currently overseeing a study on the effect of marijuana in breast milk. The study’s primary goal is to understand how cannabinoids transfer to maternal breast milk, while also measuring tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) concentrations in the breast milk of nursing mothers. As of 2018, research is still ongoing, so has yielded no conclusive medical evidence. \r\n\r\nIn October 2017, [the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) updated their official committee opinion](https://www.acog.org/Clinical-Guidance-and-Publications/Committee-Opinions/Committee-on-Obstetric-Practice/Marijuana-Use-During-Pregnancy-and-Lactation), writing that due to insufficient data of the effects of marijuana use on infants during breastfeeding, use is discouraged. The ACOG cites impaired neurodevelopment as the primary concern for maternal cannabis use and recommends that: “Pregnant women or women contemplating pregnancy should be encouraged to discontinue use of marijuana for medicinal purposes in favor of an alternative therapy for which there are better pregnancy-specific safety data.” \r\n\r\nRELATED: [SECONDHAND CANNABIS SMOKE & CHILDREN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58741204c67d2c000b8f5ffc/secondhand-cannabis-smoke-and-children)\r\n\r\nAt the Infant Risk Center at Texas Tech University, Dr. Thomas Hale is a leading expert on infant health and outspoken advocate for the health benefits of breastfeeding. The Infant Risk Center is regarded as the world’s leading research center for medication safety during lactation and breastfeeding. Yet, only one report published on the institute’s website, “[Effects of Marijuana on the Fetus and Breastfeeding Infants](https://www.infantrisk.com/content/effects-marijuana-fetus-and-breastfeeding-infants),” addresses cannabis. \r\n\r\nIn the report, Dr. Hale and his colleagues write that “an increased risk of motor, social and cognitive disturbances,” has been documented in some recent studies, citing lower birth rates and reduced head circumference in pre-exposed infants. Specifically regarding cannabis and breastfeeding, the Infant Risk Center reports only one study with conclusive results, noting, “no differences in growth, mental or motor development.” \r\n\r\nYet the same study suggests that “cannabis may produce long-term [consequences], such as reduced cognition and changes in mood and reward … early exposure to cannabis is not benign and cannabis exposure … may produce long-term changes in behavior and mental health.”\r\n\r\nDr. Hale’s final conclusion echoes ACOG’s and that of other mainstream medical associations: “While the effect of cannabis on infants from breastfeeding mothers is limited, cannabis use in breastfeeding mothers should be strongly discouraged.” \r\n\r\n### Co-Existing Behavioral & Socioeconomic Factors\r\n\r\nThe ACOG acknowledges that behavioral co-factors can accompany smoking marijuana, including tobacco, alcohol and drug use. For nursing mothers to make well-informed decisions about cannabis, research that divorces cannabis from socioeconomic impacts, including [proven high-risk behaviors like smoking tobacco](https://www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca/home/articles/alcohol-and-smoking-after-pregnancy), needs to be undertaken.\r\nThe ACOG recognizes this gap in knowledge, stating, “Adverse socioeconomic conditions, such as poverty and malnutrition, may contribute to outcomes otherwise attributed to marijuana.” \r\n\r\n### Heavy Marijuana Use During Pregnancy in Jamaica\r\n\r\nMost folks who believe cannabis is safe for pregnant women cite a study conducted in Jamaica in the late 1980s. Dr. Melanie Dreher used funding from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) to compare babies of Jamaican mothers who smoked cannabis during pregnancy and those that didn’t. She followed up after 30 days, comparing the cognitive function and motor skills of 59 Jamaican children. Her research team conducted studies on the children again at ages four and five.\r\n\r\nDr. Dreher’s conclusions found that no decrease in motor function or cognitive skill was apparent in the children of cannabis-using mothers at any age. In her ethnographic report published in _Pediatrics_ in 1994, she writes, “The neonates of heavy-marijuana-using mothers had better scores on autonomic stability, quality of alertness, irritability and self-regulation, and were judged to be more rewarding for caregivers.” \r\n\r\nSkeptics of the Jamaica study cite its age, small sample size and the fact that [marijuana has changed since the 1980s](https://www.livescience.com/53644-marijuana-is-stronger-now-than-20-years-ago.html) as reasons why it’s far from a definitive study. Cannabis is now more potent—with a higher THC content—than it was back when Dr. Dreher was in Jamaica. People are also ingesting cannabis in different ways today. One example is dabbing, where you [consume more concentrated doses of marijuana](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55d4b9616531660006070000/is-dabbing-good-for-you). It would be dangerous for nursing or expectant mothers to read the Jamaica study and conclude that consuming marijuana is absolutely safe for their growing baby. \r\n\r\n### In Humboldt County, Cannabis Is Medicine—But Is It Safe for Breastfeeding? \r\n\r\nIn Humboldt County, CA, cannabis is culturally interwoven into the community where [Dr. Pepper Hernandez runs a holistic medical practice](http://www.drpepperhernandez.com). A naturopathic doctor, Hernandez studied medicine at Trinity Holistic Wellness in Indiana before landing in Humboldt. A firm believer in “both worlds” of Western and holistic medicines, Dr. Hernandez is also a raw/live nutritionist, cannabis therapy consultant and spiritual guide. \r\n\r\nPersonally, she has used her own body as research, successfully reducing the size of a large tumor and managing epilepsy symptoms by [juicing raw cannabis leaves](https://theemeraldmagazine.com/2016/07/go-forth-go-cannabis/). Working with patients, Dr. Hernandez will “lightly suggest what type of cannabis strains are good for the patient’s ailment,” finding that strain-specific treatments can be especially effective. \r\n\r\nBut when it comes to maternal care, Dr. Hernandez flips her script almost entirely. For pregnant women and nursing moms, she views cannabis as a substance to eliminate entirely, along with sugar and caffeine. She doesn’t condone smoking cannabis, in any condition, but highly recommends salves, juicing and tinctures for her non-pregnant patients who aren’t breastfeeding. If a nursing mom approaches with a medical or personal need for cannabis, tinctures are a last resort, but she reaffirms that no level of cannabis is safe in breast milk until some definitive medical facts are published. \r\n\r\n### Dearth of Research, No Studies on CBD \r\nWhile it appears that 2018 brought significant cannabis reform, lifting the gates on prohibition far outpaces medical research. The disparity is particularly frustrating for those who already experience plenty of [stigma for using cannabis: women](https://www.forbes.com/sites/julieweed/2017/10/17/ellementa-founders-educate-women-about-cannabis-but-face-funding-stigmas/#32653b93762e). \r\nFor nursing mothers with chronic health conditions responsive to cannabis, evidence that supports safe or no-risk breastfeeding simply doesn’t exist. As research moves forward, pregnant women, nursing mothers or those with sensitive immune systems should remember that [smoking cannabis introduces carcinogens](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a467d02100a820006562f42/cannabis-and-carcinogens-whats-the-risk). \r\nFinally, though high-CBD salves, tinctures, extracts and edibles are bringing much relief to many patients with chronic pain or everyday anxiety, CBD contains a similar cannabinoid load to THC. So, while a CBD product might not alter the headspace of a nursing mom, the amount of cannabinoids in her breast milk won’t necessarily be lower than that of a mother consuming a THC product. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Mothering Touch](https://www.flickr.com/photos/motheringtouch/)\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/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/14b42/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/f836f/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/2244e/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 400w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/14b42/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 800w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/47498/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/0e329/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/cd170/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.jpg 3436w","srcWebp":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/58556/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/61e93/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/1f5c5/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 400w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/58556/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 800w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/99238/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 1200w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/7c22d/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 1600w,\n/static/d257aabac800d98757c83938f2cb636f/59feb/a6d0133d04897bb9de6e5b6de7d9699b.webp 3436w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2553-markdown","title":"Can Marijuana Help With Endometriosis?","slug":"can-marijuana-help-with-endometriosis","content":"Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue that normally lines the endometrium—the mucous membrane lining of the uterus—grows in other places, like the ovaries or Fallopian tubes. When this tissue is shed during a woman’s menstrual cycle, the abnormally growing tissue outside of the uterus is shed as well. Oftentimes, this tissue has nowhere to go and becomes trapped in the body, causing pain that can be extreme enough to lead to hospitalization. \r\n\r\nEndometriosis is common: It occurs in about 10–15% of the female population. And yet, not much is known about it—there’s no cure, and pain management options are limited. A number of women have anecdotally reported that cannabis eases the pain associated with endometriosis. Given the lack of treatment options for this condition, exploring these claims and how the endocannabinoid system is involved in this disorder’s pathology could stand to benefit millions of women. \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\nTo review, the endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors located throughout the body. Your body makes endocannabinoids, compounds that attach to these receptors. These endocannabinoids are similar in structure to compounds found in cannabis, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). This means is that THC and other phytocannabinoids found in marijuana can act on this receptor system to bring about certain therapeutic effects. \r\n\r\nA 2016 study in _Act Histochemica_  attempted to look into [the endocannabinoid system’s role in endometriosis](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0065128116303154?via%3Dihub). According to the study, the uterus contains endocannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Patients with endometriosis have the same amount of receptors as women without the disease. However, patients suffering from endometriosis lack the endocannabinoids to interact with their receptors. It would seem then that an increase in cannabinoids—such as when using cannabis—might help those with endometriosis.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [HOW THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM AFFECTS WOMEN’S HEALTH](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a271593100a820006562eb8/how-the-endocannabinoid-system-affects-womens-health)\r\n\r\nTo explore this logic, the researchers first showed that the endometrial cells of patients with the disorder produced fewer endocannabinoids—but they also noticed that these cells proliferated more easily. Interestingly, endocannabinoids are known to assist in apoptosis—a type of programmed cell death. And cannabinoids in general have anti-proliferative actions on some cells, as well as analgesic effects for patients. \r\n\r\nUsing a cell culture, researchers added compounds that attach to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endometrial cells. They found that this led to anti-proliferative and apoptotic effects. What they concluded was that, if you were to add endocannabinoids, which also attach to these receptors, you might be able to get similar outcomes. \r\n\r\nThese findings could have applications to the endometrial cells that grow outside of the uterus in women who have this disorder. However, this has yet to be studied. Though the development of a cannabis-based medicine to treat endometriosis is being researched and attempted, studies like this lay the groundwork for such goals. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Asdrubal Luna](https://unsplash.com/@infectedluna)\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":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/14b42/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/f836f/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/2244e/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 400w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/14b42/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 800w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/47498/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/0e329/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/77d93/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/58556/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/61e93/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/1f5c5/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 400w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/58556/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 800w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/99238/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 1200w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/7c22d/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 1600w,\n/static/a540b7890fcb34e218c3fe2bd5735191/d4378/2c259b0c1caf59d78798bba180cd57dc.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2549-markdown","title":"6 Marijuana Strains for Day & Night to Support Women’s Health","slug":"6-marijuana-strains-for-day-and-night-to-support-womens-health","content":"The saying “men are from Mars and women are from Venus” may have started as a lighthearted comment to highlight the differences between temperaments in women and men. But there’s a kernel of truth there.\n\nMen and women are different—especially when it comes to their health. Women’s bodies need different types of care for issues that don’t just affect them in obvious ways—like periods—but also with the not-always-easy-to-grasp conditions like hormone changes due to menopause, problems sleeping, mood swings, back pain or dysmenorrhea (aka menstrual cramps).\n\nRELATED: [5 WAYS MARIJUANA AFFECTS MEN & WOMEN DIFFERENTLY]( https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6786ed8425e40008273a37/5-ways-marijuana-affects-men-and-women-differently)\n\nWhen it comes to these types of health concerns, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Fortunately, cannabis has been shown to have healing properties for women, whether used for body aches, insomnia, menstrual cramps or anxiety. \n\n### How Women Can Use Medical Marijuana\n\nIt may take some trial and error to find just the right strain that works for you, but knowing the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) levels along with the type of strain helps narrow the field down quite a bit.\n\nThere’s also the question of when to use cannabis for a particular malady; some women may need to treat insomnia, while some may need help controlling anxiety during the daytime. With that in mind, here are six strains that have been shown to be effective for a variety of ills—three for daytime use and three for nighttime.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Cannabis Strains for Daytime Use\n\n**Cannatonic**\n\nCannatonic has a higher level of CBD relative to THC. For most people, this means it won’t create any psychoactive effects—perfect for daytime use. Cannatonic is known for creating happy and uplifting feelings, making this hybrid strain best to treat anxiety, depression and insomnia—conditions some women experience during their period or menopause.\n\n**Durban Poison**\t\n\nWith a THC content that can get up to 24%, [Durban Poison](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cb16cd520d60009f4f4a3) is a good choice for women who want to medicate during the day, but who also need to stay productive; consumers almost universally report that the strain doesn’t make them sleepy or drowsy. This sativa strain is often used to treat depression, anxiety and chronic pain—symptoms faced by many women who suffer from PMS and/or menstrual cramps.\n\n**OG Kush**\n\n[OG Kush](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cce66d520d60009f4f4ab) is a well-known hybrid with THC levels that can go as high as 26%, which can lead to elevated levels of psychoactivity. OG Kush also has fairly high levels of limonene and linalool, terpenes that can help fight against depression, migraines and stress. That’s why some women choose this strain when experiencing painful symptoms related to PMS and menstrual cramps.\n\n### Marijuana Strains for Nighttime Use\n\n**Arjan's Strawberry Haze** \n\nThis sativa strain is good for depression, fatigue and migraines. While Arjan's Strawberry Haze is popular for daytime use because it's known to encourage creativity and sociability, it also works well for some insomnia sufferers. This hybrid strain is a perfect nighttime choice for women going through a hormone imbalance.\n\n**Cherry Pie**\n\n[Cherry Pie](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5b90379e404e830001078775) is an indica-dominant strain that actually smells like cherries and is used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, bipolar disorder, pain and migraines. With 13–23% THC content, it’s known to create feelings of euphoria followed by deep sleep after two to three hours. This could be a great strain for women looking for an elevation in mood before a great night’s sleep.\n\n**Grape Ape** \n\n[Grape Ape](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce671d520d60009f4f4c0) is a popular strain used by many to treat insomnia, pain, depression and anxiety. Consumers also report improved mood, making this indica strain the right choice for women who need a pick-me-up at night. Sometimes Grape Ape’s effects can be strong, leading to “couch lock,” so if you’re in need of some pain relief from PMS, menopause or painful periods, choose this strain to relax and watch a movie before bed.\n\nPhoto credit: [Omar Lopez](https://unsplash.com/@omarlopez1)\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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