From the monthly cycle to the menopause: hormonal changes can have a big impact on how you feel. Many women look for ways of dealing with these changes alongside regular care. CBD is regularly mentioned in that context. In this article, an overview of what research says so far about CBD and hormonal processes, and what the limits of that knowledge are.
The endocannabinoid system and hormones
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a system of the body’s own that was discovered in 1992 and has been researched worldwide ever since. It consists of receptors (CB1 and CB2) spread throughout the body, and of signalling compounds the body makes itself. The system plays a role in processes such as immune regulation, the experience of pain, sleep and mood.
Cannabinoids from the hemp plant, including CBD, can act on this system. Research also points to the ECS playing a role in how the hormone system works, in the oestrogen cycle for instance. Exactly how CBD influences that interaction and what it means for complaints around the cycle or the menopause is the subject of active scientific research. Much of that is still at an early stage.
What does research say about CBD and menstrual complaints?
Clinical research into CBD specifically for menstrual pain is limited at present. There are pre-clinical studies pointing to an influence of cannabinoids on inflammatory processes and on the experience of pain through the ECS. Large, long-running clinical studies comparing CBD with existing painkillers for menstrual pain are so far lacking.
For ordinary menstrual pain there are proven routes: NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, hormonal contraception, heat, exercise. For severe menstrual complaints or suspected endometriosis, a GP or gynaecologist is the appropriate route, not a food supplement.
CBD in the menopause: what is known?
The menopause brings a broad range of complaints: hot flushes, sleep problems, mood swings, dry mucous membranes, sometimes joint complaints. For most of these there are regular treatments, from lifestyle adjustments to local or systemic hormone therapy.
Research into CBD specifically during the menopause is very limited at present. There are questionnaire studies among women who use CBD in this stage of life, but controlled clinical trials comparing CBD with placebo or with existing treatments for menopausal complaints barely exist yet. A GP can help weigh up the options, including any role for a supplement such as CBD.
Important: pregnancy, breastfeeding and medication
- During pregnancy or breastfeeding: CBD is not advised. There is insufficient research into effects on the child.
- With hormonal contraception or hormone therapy: discuss CBD use with your GP or pharmacist. CBD can influence how the body breaks down certain medicines.
- With severe complaints or a suspected underlying condition: go to a GP or gynaecologist. CBD does not replace regular care.
What if you want to try CBD?
CBD is legally available in the Netherlands as a food supplement, provided the THC content stays below the legal limit. It is not a medicine and is not sold as one.
If you want to try CBD, alongside your regular care:
- Consult your GP first, especially if you take medication or are pregnant.
- Start low, 10 to 20 mg of CBD a day for instance, and build up calmly over a few weeks.
- Keep your expectations realistic. Research is still limited, and what one person experiences, another does not.
- Choose products that are transparent about their composition and that publish an independent lab report per batch.
Frequently asked questions
What does research say about CBD and menstrual pain?
May I use CBD during pregnancy?
What does research say about CBD and hot flushes?
May I combine CBD with the pill or hormone therapy?
How much CBD per day is used in research?
Sources and further reading
- Thuisarts.nl on menstrual complaints: thuisarts.nl
- Thuisarts.nl on the menopause: thuisarts.nl/overgang
- Dutch Society for Obstetrics and Gynaecology: nvog.nl
This article is informative and not medical advice. For complaints or questions about your health, consult your doctor or gynaecologist. CBD is a food supplement and not a replacement for medical treatment.
