Last year in 2022, a research team in the United States published a report examining the effects of cannabis on menopausal symptoms. While cannabis is known for its potential benefits in conditions such as depression, PTSD, increased appetite, and pain relief, let’s explore its potential effects on menopause. Here is an overview of the effects of cannabis on menopausal symptoms.
About Menopause
The median age of menopause for women is around 50 years old. Menopause refers to a period of approximately 10 years, including the five years before and after the cessation of menstruation, during which women may experience physical and psychological discomfort. The onset of menopause often occurs in the late 40s, but the age of menopause can vary from the 40s to the 60s, showing individual differences.
During menopause, the ovarian function declines, leading to unstable secretion of the female hormone “estrogen,” causing irregularities in the menstrual cycle and other disruptions. Typically, menopause is associated with irregular periods, varying menstrual flow, and longer intervals between periods.
Menopause can manifest in various physical and psychological symptoms, including:
Physical symptoms:
Chills, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, exhaustion, shoulder stiffness, joint pain, constipation, diarrhea, etc.
Psychological symptoms:
Anxiety, irritability, mood swings, feelings of depression, etc.
Treatment for Menopause
Treatment options for menopause include hormone replacement therapy, counseling, exercise and diet therapy, and traditional Chinese medicine. Hormone replacement therapy has been found to improve vasomotor symptoms such as facial flushing, sweating, and shortness of breath.
Effects of Cannabis on Menopause
According to the research paper, the endocannabinoid system, an innate body regulation system responsible for controlling temperature, mood, anxiety, sleep, and more, may be involved in alleviating menopausal symptoms through the cannabinoids found in cannabis.
In the study, 92% of the participating women reported previous cannabis use. Among those with cannabis experience, 78.7% reported using it to alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as sleep disorders, mood disorders, and decreased libido.
Another survey conducted in Northern California showed that 27% of individuals used medical cannabis for menopausal symptoms, while only 19% received hormone replacement therapy. This suggests that medical cannabis treatment is more prevalent in Northern California than conventional therapies.
While the above research results suggest the potential of cannabis in alleviating menopausal symptoms, it is important to note that there are differences in menopause experiences among different racial groups. Further research is needed to better understand and address these differences.
Summary
We have summarized the potential effects of cannabis on menopausal symptoms. In North America, the use of medical cannabis for menopause treatment is gradually becoming more common. As research progresses, it is expected that safer and more targeted interventions can be developed to effectively alleviate menopausal symptoms.