Throughout a woman's life, there are different physiological transition points that result in changes in the female hormonal balance. Menopause is not a disease and not all women suffer from symptoms, however, some women have found relief from the use of CBD oil for some of the discomforts associated with this stage.
What is menopause?
Menopause marks an important transition in a woman's life. As the ovaries cease their function of producing eggs, hormonal changes begin that result in symptoms ranging from mild to extremely bothersome and include: sudden feelings of heat (hot flashes), mood changes, and insomnia or sleep disturbances, among others.
The endocannabinoid system and hormonal changes during menopause
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is at the center of the potential therapeutic effects of many cannabinoids, including CBD. SEC is linked to hormonal regulation, as cannabinoid receptors are found in the hypothalamus.
This part of the brain, the hypothalamus, is where the secretion of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is the master hormone for the release of hormones in the reproductive cycle of women and men, is regulated (1). During menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate, SEC modulation can influence hormonal stability.
The endocannabinoid system has been documented to interact with estrogen, a hormone that plays a role in women's well-being and which declines during menopause. This interaction may be important in how a woman's body responds to hormonal changes during menopause.
Likewise, the interaction between the endocannabinoid system and estrogen is well documented in brain development and some processes such as memory, learning and central control of reproduction (2). The endocannabinoid system, on the other hand, can also regulate processes such as mood, sleep and many other functions that may be related to well-being.
Therefore, it is possible to suggest that CBD or cannabidiol, through the endocannabinoid system, may offer relief from some symptoms associated with hormonal changes during menopause.
How can CBD help in menopause?
Although there are no scientific studies showing that CBD can help with the hormonal changes of the menopausal stage, it may help some of the symptoms associated with this natural period for women.
Anxiety, depression and stress
During menopause, mood changes are frequently reported, including increased anxiety and depressive symptoms.
CBD could be a help, as it is known for its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. Some studies suggest that CBD may modulate the levels of some neurotransmitters, and particularly may stimulate serotonin receptors, promoting a sense of well-being.
Insomnia
Sleep disturbances, predominantly due to night sweats and hot flashes, are common during menopause. CBD has shown promise in inducing sleep when administered in high doses.
Skin health
The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to dry skin, loss of elasticity and acne. CBD-infused cosmetic products could be of great help, given CBD's anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to regulate sebum production.
How to take CBD for menopausal symptoms?
First check with a health professional to make sure that CBD, or any supplement, may be of benefit depending on the individual's situation. Consult a healthcare professional to ensure the safety and appropriateness of any treatment.
The use of CBD has been suggested to start at low doses, to adjust the dose according to the effect sought. It is recommended to leave at least 2 weeks before escalating the dose gradually. We tell you more about this topic in the post:
Treatment of menopausal symptoms
If you suffer from some symptoms of menopause, do not forget to take a holistic approach. While CBD may offer relief from some discomfort, adopting an approach that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise and stress-relieving techniques can provide comprehensive support during menopause.
Precautions with the use of CBD
Don't forget that drug interactions and side effects may occur with the use of CBD. It is also important to check the legal status of CBD in the country you are in and to be informed about the local regulations for each type of CBD product.
Marijuana use during menopause
While this article focuses primarily on CBD, it is worth noting that some women use cannabis to manage menopausal symptoms. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana, may also alleviate certain symptoms. However, the risk of psychoactive effects and dependence makes it a poorly recommended option.
Harvard University conducted a survey on cannabis use during menopause and noted that many women find relief with cannabis use (3).
A study based on surveys conducted in Canada reported that, although 74% of medical cannabis users found relief from some of the symptoms of menopause, women who do not use marijuana tend to have fewer symptoms related to this female stage (4).
Advice for women during menopause
Menopause is not a disease: It is important to be aware that hormonal changes are natural processes for both women and men.
- Information is power: Staying informed about the menopausal process makes women more confident and empowered.
- Look for natural remedies: If you suffer from menopausal discomfort, the ideal would be to find natural solutions that nourish and care for your body.
- Medical assistance: To begin any treatment for the relief of menopause-related symptoms, it is essential to consult with health professionals.
- Focus on overall wellness: A balanced diet, regular exercise and practices that nourish the body and mind can significantly influence the menopausal experience.
Conclusion
The transition to menopause can be challenging for some women. While traditional therapies persist in the conventional medical approach, the potential benefits of CBD for the relief of some menopausal discomforts may be of interest to some women. The anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of CBD, as well as its cosmetic applications, represent an alternative for those women who would like to benefit from CBD to cross this transitional stage.
Don't forget that as with any substance you wish to introduce or add to a treatment regimen, individual responses may vary, which emphasizes the importance of personalized medicine and regular consultation with health professionals.
Note: This is an informational article and is not intended to prevent, diagnose or treat any disease. Its contents may complement, but should never replace, any diagnosis or treatment of any disease or symptom. Cannactiva products are not medicines and are intended for external use. The data shown reflect the scientific evidence up to the date of publication, please note that new advances may emerge since then. Therefore, consult your doctor before using CBD.
References
- Gammon, C. M., Freeman, G. M., Jr, Xie, W., Petersen, S. L., & Wetsel, W. C. (2005). Regulation of gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion by cannabinoids. Endocrinology, 146(10), 4491-4499. https://doi.org/10.1210/en.2004-1672
- Santoro, A., Mele, E., Marino, M., Viggiano, A., Nori, S. L., & Meccariello, R. (2021). The Complex Interplay between Endocannabinoid System and the Estrogen System in Central Nervous System and Periphery. International journal of molecular sciences, 22(2), 972. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms22020972
- Dahlgren, M. K., El-Abboud, C., Lambros, A. M., Sagar, K. A., Smith, R. T., & Gruber, S. A. (2022). A survey of medical cannabis use during perimenopause and postmenopause. Menopause (New York, N.Y.), 29(9), 1028-1036. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000002018
- Babyn, K., Ross, S., Makowsky, M., Kiang, T., & Yuksel, N. (2023). Cannabis use for menopause in women aged 35 and over: a cross-sectional survey on usage patterns and perceptions in Alberta, Canada. BMJ open, 13(6), e069197. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069197
