Surging in popularity, CBD is continuously being praised for helping pretty much any wellbeing issue from stress to constipation – but what about when it comes to women’s health specifically? Can CBD actually help reduce menstrual cramps?

Firstly, when it comes to the effects of CBD on the body, it’s important to note that there isn’t much good evidence-based research online regarding the relationship between period pain and CBD products. There are, however, studies currently being conducted on CBD vaginal capsules aiming at pain relief, but we are still to see the results. So, when it comes to your period, can CBD actually help?

Can CBD help ease period muscle cramps?

CBD is one of the active ingredients in the cannabis plant. Studies have shown that this cannabinoid has natural anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and mood stabilising effects. Using CBD products can, therefore, potentially help reduce the pain in localised areas like your lower back and lower abdomen (1).

Can CBD help stabilise PMS and reduce anxiety?

As CBD products are known to reduce anxiety and stabilise mood, it is likely that using CBD products before your period begins and when your PMS symptoms are kicking in, can offer anti-anxiety properties which can help reduce stress and anxiety leading up to your period (2). There is much anecdotal data confirming this hypothesis but we still need the clinical data to truly establish the connection.

How do you dose CBD when you’re on your period?

Dosing depends on how regularly you use CBD. If you have used CBD a few times already, have done your research, or have spoken to a professional, you can use products like suppositories during your period to help ease bloating and cramps (3). 

If you don’t use CBD regularly or have never used any products, then you can start with oils or capsules of any variety. As far as we know, it is completely safe to use CBD every day, even as a food supplement.

Can you use CBD regularly long-term?

Although we lack published results from longer clinical studies, CBD is a natural chemical and can as far as we know readily be used daily. If you have never used CBD products, always start with a low dose and gradually build up, and always do your research or speak to a professional before regular use.

If you suffer from painful or uncomfortable periods, know that some people experience lesser symptoms when using CBD products. CBD can’t change your symptoms long-term, but it can help you ease cramps and anxiety symptoms associated with your period thanks to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

READ NEXT: Tried and tested remedies and products to help ease period pain.
 

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21307846
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21307846
3. https://thedrug.store/collections/foria_wellness/products/foria-cbd-suppositories