For most women that menstruate, PMS, period cramps and painful period pain are challenges we have all dealt with monthly. Not to mention all the other symptoms like bloating, fatigue and irritability! Cannabis supporters have long been vocal about its medicinal benefits for pain relief, inflammation and nausea, but some potential uses of CBD and THC are less well known. Many women are also using cannabis to help with anxiety, mood, lack of focus and bloating making it ideal for your monthly cycle. People with menstrual pain & chronic pain often look for other alternatives to painkillers and birth control to give them natural relief from their period. Today we are going to explore the question- Does weed help with your period?
WHY DO WE GET monthly pain AND SYMPTOMS
We all know the challenges that can come with your monthly cycle. Some women have chronic, debilitating period pain while others have more sporadic pain. Many women complain that their menstrual pain gets worse after they have children or as they get older. Other women suffers from conditions like endometriosis and PCOS that seem to intensify during their menstrual cycle (including pelvic pain). While some pain or discomfort with your period is normal, severe or debilitating pain — or pain that interferes with your life or daily activities — is not normal.
Period Symptoms
The list of potential signs and symptoms for premenstrual syndrome is extensive, but most women only experience a few of these issues each month.
Emotional and behavioral symptoms
- Anxiety
- Depressed mood
- Mood swings
- Appetite changes and cravings
- Sleep challenges
- Poor concentration
- Change in libido
Physical symptoms
- Joint or muscle pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Breast tenderness
- Acne
- Constipation or diarrhea
Menstrual cramps are generally categorized as “primary dysmenorrhea,” which is caused by the elevated production of prostaglandins, hormones produced by the uterus that cause it to contract. When you have strong uterine contractions, the blood supply to the uterus is momentarily shut down, depriving the uterus muscle of oxygen and setting up the cycle of menstrual cramps and pain. Other symptoms are caused by changes in hormones and chemical changes in the brain. Fluctuations of serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that’s thought to play a crucial role in mood states, could trigger PMS symptoms. Insufficient amounts of serotonin may contribute to premenstrual depression, as well as to fatigue, food cravings and sleep problems.
CAN MARIJUANA REALLY HELP my period?
While there is more anecdotal evidence than scientific at this moment, there are many ways people use cannabis to help reduce symptoms of their monthly cycle. Cannabis can be a great way to relieve your non severe pain. Here is an overview of how cannabis can help with your period and the related symptoms. and feel better quicker.
cannabis and menstrual pain relief
The number one reason people use cannabis for their period is to relieve pain. Since cannabis is a natural vasodilator, meaning it expands the blood vessels, it can help reduce cramps, and relieve headaches and other minor pain that much faster. While edibles and smoking may help, many women are turning to topicals and cannabis suppositories for pain relief. These can provide relief without the psychoactive effects that other methods may have.
cannabis and MooD
Cannabis can help us feel heightened states of bliss and lightheartedness. However, studies have shown that it can do more than just temporarily boost moods, it can also help minimize mood swings and bring about overall mood stability. Cannabis can aid in the regulation of our brain’s neurotransmitters which can help us get better control of our emotions.
cannabis and Focus
It has been shown that cannabis can boost dopamine levels in the brain, which in turn helps stimulate mental focus. The higher the THC, the more patients tend to experience improved focus and clarity. With the right dose, you can feel energized, motivated, and determined to conquer any task.
Cannabis and Anxiety
Anxiety is something that affects millions of Americans in varying degrees, and it causes our brain’s neurotransmitters to become overactive and fire off at inappropriate and inconvenient times. Cannabis can provide some relief for anxiety, as many of the chemical compounds present in cannabis have been proven to reduce the symptoms, both mentally and physically. CBD can work with the cannabinoid receptors in our brain to slow this process and leave us feeling calm and level-headed.
Other natural ways to help your PMS and CRAMps
1. Exercise
You don’t always feel like sticking to your exercise routine during your period, but moving your body can help relieve pain and tension. Low-intensity yoga workouts and stretching can help release tension in the abdomen and hips, relieving the muscle tension that causes cramps.
2. Nutrition
When you eat well, you typically feel better. During your period anti-inflammatory fruits like berries, dairy products ), dark chocolate, and almonds can be good choices. In addition, if you struggle with period cramps, you might be deficient in nutrients like magnesium and calcium. It’s smart to eat foods high in magnesium, like avocados, bananas, and leafy greens, and foods high in calcium, like cheese, yogurt, and almonds, but it doesn’t hurt to get your levels checked by your doctor. After your doctor runs blood work, they can tell you if you’re deficient in either nutrient and recommend a daily supplement dosage to help reduce your monthly cramps.
3. Manage Your Stress
Cramps can be stressful, but there’s also a good chance that stress is one of the reasons behind your cramps. High-stress levels can increase unpleasant period symptoms like cramps, nausea, bloating, and even irregular periods. This occurs due to high levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), but there are ways to reduce your stress levels to avoid this.
Period cramps are not only annoying, but they can disrupt your day if they’re painful enough. While it may be tempting to pop ibuprofen to relieve the pain or ask your doctor about starting birth control for relief, there are plenty of natural remedies (and healthier) ways to relieve period cramps.
How do you handle your PMS, Period or Monthly Pain?
-Hallman Ray