Canadian women using cannabis for menopause symptoms
The changing landscape of healthcare in Canada has seen a significant shift in the treatment of menopause symptoms, with many women, increasingly, turning to cannabis as a therapeutic remedy. This is a revelation made by a recent study conducted by the University of Alberta. The study made a point to emphasize the considerable challenges women who are 35 years old and above confront when they are on the hunt for effective treatments for menopause symptoms. Compounding these issues, there’s a marked scarcity of research focusing on menopause. Additionally, there’s a lack of invaluable educational resources, leaving many women feeling isolated and abandoned by the healthcare system. Christine Eriksen, a Canadian woman of considerable courage and strength, is one such individual who has been compelled to seek alternative remedies, specifically cannabis, to alleviate her intense and often debilitating symptoms of menopause. In the summer of the year 2021, Eriksen was beset by crippling symptoms of fatigue, joint pain, severe anxiety, digestive issues, and intense mood swings. Her healthcare providers initially failed to establish a connection between her symptoms and menopause, which only served to enhance her feelings of being lost and alone in her struggle. Eventually, she found solace and guidance from a naturopathic physician who specializes in menopause. In addition to taking dietary supplements, Eriksen now uses cannabinol (CBN) to help her relax and get proper sleep, and consumes edibles containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBN to alleviate her anxiety. Eriksen’s confusion and unfamiliarity with menopause and its symptoms are not unique. A 2022 survey conducted by the Institute for Women’s Health in London revealed that a staggering 90% of women had never received education about menopause. Additionally, more than 60% admitted to feeling uninformed about the biological process. A separate study carried out in 2021 found that nearly half of the women surveyed could not differentiate between perimenopause and menopause. Jessica Erlendson, a 53-year-old resident of Calgary, began experiencing symptoms in her late 30s, oblivious to the fact that it was the onset of perimenopause. Through keen observation and proactive actions, Erlendson was able to identify her condition early and sought treatment from a family and functional medicine doctor. Today, she uses cannabis, primarily cannabidiol (CBD) and an indica-strain THC, to manage disruptions to her sleep and mitigate mood swings. Erlendson’s commitment to the cause doesn’t stop with managing her own symptoms. She administers a Canadian perimenopause and menopause support group on Facebook and serves as a menopause coach, aiding other women in navigating their unique struggles. Anecdotal evidence from her group reveals that some women also use cannabis products to relax and relieve muscle tension, underscoring its rising popularity as a treatment option. However, Dr. Sana-Ara Ahmed, a medical director at Genuvis Health, issued a cautionary note about the limited research on CBD and its impact on menopausal symptoms. She also highlighted that the lingering stigmas and a notable lack of education among healthcare professionals often consign patients to a self-care regimen to manage their symptoms. Despite the burgeoning popularity of cannabis as a treatment option, Dr. Shannon Trainor, a menopause practitioner at the Westcoast Women’s Clinic in Vancouver, firmly stated that hormone therapy remains the gold-standard solution for alleviating menopause symptoms. Other options include non-hormonal prescription medications and cognitive behavioural therapy. Erlendson echoed this sentiment, attesting to the benefits of yoga and dietary changes in alleviating her symptoms. She hopes for more accessible and comprehensive information to facilitate symptom prevention rather than merely concentrating on treatment. As the chorus of women sharing their struggles with menopause grows louder, it’s abundantly clear that a more comprehensive approach, one that includes understanding and addressing this crucial facet of women’s health, is sorely needed. By doing so, the healthcare sector could empower women in dealing with menopause, allowing them to live their lives with dignity and comfort.
Menopause is a natural process that affects women in different ways. Some of the common symptoms include hot flashes, mood swings, sleep problems, and vaginal dryness. Many women look for natural remedies to ease these symptoms, and some of them may consider using cannabis or CBD products.
Cannabis is a plant that contains many compounds, such as THC and CBD, that can interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body. This system is involved in regulating various functions, such as mood, temperature, pain, and inflammation. Some studies suggest that cannabis may help with some menopausal symptoms by balancing the endocannabinoid system and reducing inflammation12.
However, not all cannabis strains are the same. Different strains have different levels of THC and CBD, as well as other cannabinoids and terpenes that can affect the taste, smell, and effects of the plant. Some strains may be more suitable for certain symptoms than others.
According to some sources13, some of the best cannabis strains for menopause are:
ACDC: This is a high-CBD strain that has very little THC. It is known for its relaxing and anti-inflammatory effects, without causing any psychoactive effects. It may help with pain, anxiety, and insomnia.
Harlequin: This is another high-CBD strain that has a balanced ratio of CBD to THC. It can provide mild euphoria and relaxation, while also relieving pain and inflammation. It may help with mood swings, hot flashes, and stress.
Cannatonic: This is a hybrid strain that has a moderate amount of CBD and THC. It can produce a calm and uplifting effect, while also easing muscle spasms and tension. It may help with cramps, headaches, and fatigue.
Remedy: This is an indica-dominant strain that has a high level of CBD and a low level of THC. It can induce a deep sense of relaxation and sedation, while also reducing inflammation and pain. It may help with insomnia, nausea, and appetite loss.
Pennywise: This is an indica-dominant strain that has an equal ratio of CBD to THC. It can create a mellow and soothing effect, while also enhancing mood and creativity. It may help with depression, anxiety, and neuropathy.
Of course, these are just some examples of cannabis strains that may help with menopause symptoms. There are many other strains that may have different effects depending on the individual user’s preferences, tolerance, and medical conditions. It is important to consult with a doctor before using any cannabis products, especially if you have any health issues or take any medications.
Learn more:
3. onlygas.co
4. today.com
How do I use cannabis for menopause symptoms?
There are different ways to use cannabis for menopause symptoms, depending on your preference, tolerance, and availability. Some of the common methods are:
Smoking: This is the most traditional way of inhaling cannabis. It can provide fast and potent effects, but it can also irritate your lungs and throat. Smoking may not be suitable for people with respiratory issues or those who want to avoid the smell of smoke.
Vaping: This is a method of heating cannabis oil or flower and inhaling the vapor. It can offer similar benefits as smoking, but with less harm to your lungs and less odor. However, vaping may require special devices and cartridges that can be expensive or hard to find.
Edibles: These are food or drinks that contain cannabis, such as gummies, chocolates, or teas. They can provide long-lasting and discreet effects, but they can also take longer to kick in and be harder to dose. Edibles may not be suitable for people with diabetes or digestive issues.
Topicals: These are creams, lotions, or oils that contain cannabis and are applied to the skin. They can provide localized relief for pain and inflammation, but they may not have any psychoactive effects. Topicals may be suitable for people who want to avoid getting high or have skin problems.
No matter which method you choose, it is important to start low and go slow. This means you should begin with a small amount of cannabis and wait for the effects before taking more. You should also consult with your doctor before using any cannabis products, especially if you have any health conditions or take any medications.
Learn more:
3. cannigma.com
4. thelist.com
— see less
How do I find a reliable source of cannabis products?
Searching the web for: How to find a reliable source of cannabis products
Generating answers for you…
Cannabis
Explore
Finding a reliable source of cannabis products can be challenging, especially if you live in a place where cannabis is still illegal or highly regulated. However, there are some ways to increase your chances of getting safe and high-quality products. Here are some tips:
Know your state’s laws: Cannabis laws vary from state to state, and even within your state depending on where you are located. You should be aware of the legal status of cannabis in your area, and the potential risks and penalties of buying or using it. You can check the latest cannabis regulations in your state here1.
Research different types of products: Cannabis products come in many forms, such as flower, oil, edibles, topicals, and concentrates. Each type has different effects, benefits, and drawbacks. You should understand the differences between these products and their intended uses before you buy them. You can learn more about the different types of cannabis products here2.
Find a reputable dispensary or online store: If you have access to a legal dispensary or online store, you should do some research to find one that suits your needs and preferences. You should look for a source that offers a wide variety of products, has knowledgeable staff, provides lab test results, and has positive reviews from other customers. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family who use cannabis. You can find some examples of trusted dispensaries and online stores here34.
Be careful with online purchases: If you decide to buy cannabis products online, you should be extra careful and cautious. There are many scammers and fake websites that may try to rip you off or sell you low-quality or contaminated products. You should always verify the legitimacy and reputation of the website, read user reviews, check the product’s certificate of analysis, and use secure payment methods. You can find some tips on how to buy cannabis online safely here5.
Learn more:
4. we-heart.com