The female body and cannabis: How does the plant help us throughout our lives?
Date of publication: February 23, 2023
Author: Editorial ICAN
The use of cannabis for medicinal purposes by women dates back to ancient Mesopotamia. As will be discussed below, the plant is beneficial at different life stages and biological periods.
Because of their antidepressant and anti-inflammatory effects, cannabinoids can be a good alternative to counteract nausea and muscle pain, common complaints of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and/or menstruation.
According to specialists from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, PMS symptoms can be physical and emotional. Among them are: mood swings, anxiety, irritability, depression, skin problems, inflammation and swelling, headaches and muscle aches. Below, we explain how the plant interacts with our Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
Mood and hormonal changes: by interacting with the limbic system (part of the brain that controls emotions) and neurotransmitters, CBD is useful in regulating mood and hormone production.
Breast tenderness and menstrual cramps: We are all familiar with breast and muscle tenderness, particularly when menstruation is about to start. CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that reduce sensitivity.
Nausea and inflammation: Cannabis contains CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), a compound that can reduce discomfort in the digestive system.
Skin problems: CBD may play a promising therapeutic role in the treatment of acne. Through its interaction with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, it can prevent and reduce its appearance by reducing the secretion of the sebaceous glands (responsible for secreting oil to the follicles).
Cannabis and menopause
For many women, menopause can be a complicated physical and emotional process. Mood swings, sleep disturbances and loss of bone density are common. In line with the above, we recover that CBD can act as an antidepressant and anxiolytic.
In addition to playing a central role in mood regulation, it can reduce anxiety, a significant factor in sleep problems. Regarding its benefits for the skeletal system, this cannabinoid is known to help balance the bone metabolic process.
Cannabis and women's pleasure
Among the consequences of prohibitionist policies regarding cannabis is the stagnation of research on its effects on sexual life. In addition, there is a taboo on talking about female pleasure.
However, in recent years the issue has been addressed. There are now many cannabis-based products that promise improved sexual stimulation. It should be noted that these notes have been made by brands. Scientific evidence is still lacking. In the meantime, we share with you some data retrieved by the commercial sector.
More pleasurable sexual relations
In 2017, St. Louis University published a study investigating the relationship between the plant and female pleasure. 133 women were interviewed within the same gynecological clinic. 29% consumed cannabis before having sex. 66% reported a more pleasurable experience.
In a second survey led by the same research team, 289 women responded to a questionnaire similar to the first one. 33% said they were cannabis users before sexual activity. 65% indicated that it increased their pleasure during the act. In this regard, Dr. Lynn (responsible for the study) commented:
"There are a variety of ideas as to why. One is that it reduces anxiety and stress, gives a woman a little more confidence in her sexual ability. Or it may slow down her perception of time and increase sensation."
Despite these data, it is essential to keep in mind that consuming too much cannabis can cause feelings of sedation and paranoia. For this reason, specialists recommend using low doses. Sexuality occurs mainly in the brain.
References
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2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (2015). Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Frequently Asked Questions: Gynecologic Problems. Retrieved from. https://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Premenstrual-Syndrome-PMiS
3. Nguyen, S. (2019). 5 Incredible Health Benefits of CBD for Women. CBD Origin. Retrieved from. https://medium.com/cbd-origin/5-incredible-health-benefits-of-cbd-for-women-e18d31013183
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10. Lynn, B., Miller, C. Thompson, J., Campian, E.C. (2017). The Relationship between Marijuana Use Prior to Sex and Sexual Function in Women. Journal of Sexual medicine 14 (1, Suppl. 1): S105. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2019.01.003
11. Lynn, B., Miller, C., Thompson, J., Jones, B., Campian, E.C. (2017). The Perceived Effects of Marijuana Use Before Sex. journal of Sexual Medicine 14 (6, Suppl. 5): e357-e358. Retrieved from: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.04.025
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13. Cain, P. (2019). Cannabis can help with better sex, but low doses are key. Global News Canada. Retrieved from. https://globalnews.ca/news/4848963/sex-marijuana-cannabis/
