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Endometriosis affects around 10% of people assigned female at birth on the planet, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
It’s where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body, usually the ovaries, fallopian tubes and lining of the pelvis. Symptoms happen when patches of endometriosis break down and bleed during your period but cannot leave your body.
Symptoms include:
- Severe period pain
- Heavy periods
- Pain when you poo or wee
- Pain in the lower tummy or back
- Pain during or after sex
- Extreme tiredness
- Pain or bleeding in other areas, such as in the chest, which may cause shortness of breath and coughing up blood
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Low mood or anxiety
A 2018 study found that doctors often view men with chronic pain as “brave” or “stoic,” but view women with chronic pain as “emotional” or “hysterical. And this lack of inclusivity in medical research has led to gaps in knowledge, with doctors knowing less about female health than male health.
When doctors don’t take a patient’s symptoms seriously, it can prevent diagnosis for many years. The diagnosis of endometriosis can sometimes take between 5-10 years. This lack of communication has led to a lack of trust in medical professionals for some people, but there are alternative options. Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions, including endometriosis.
We’ll be exploring how medical cannabis potentially reduces endometriosis inflammation as well as methods of consumption, for example CBD oil for endometriosis relief, and some risks below.
How Medical Cannabis May Help with Endometriosis Pain & Inflammation
Unfortunately, there’s no known cure for endometriosis, but there are some medications available to help relieve symptoms, including pain relief and inflammation reduction. And one alternative option to help symptoms is medical cannabis.
The cannabis plant produces over 100 cannabinoids, or compounds. Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of these natural compounds, and they’re what you’ll see most often when researching medical cannabis. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
Both compounds work by interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS), a messenger and receptor system that is integral to homeostasis (the management of balance) within the human body. The ECS influences and modulates pretty much every single function within your body, directing, correcting and managing your overall health. And it plays an important role in menopause.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. They’re one of the main reasons behind why medical cannabis might work so positively on so many different conditions. Many experts believe that, by consuming compounds like THC and CBD, it’s possible to interact with these receptors.
Research & Evidence
This study, published by the Public Library of Science, shows the potential of medical cannabis to reduce pelvic pain, treat gastrointestinal problems and positively influence mood.
There are studies that show THC playing an important role in pain management, which could potentially be very beneficial to someone suffering from endometriosis. And this 2022 study shows CBD having a pronounced impact on pain. In reality, both CBD and THC can play a lead role in certain health conditions, and can sometimes be greater together, due to a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
There’s been some talk around medical cannabis and hormonal balance, however there’s currently no research or evidence to support this.
One thing is clear: a lot more research is needed. Which is why one of our missions at Alternaleaf is to bring medical cannabis into the mainstream, acting as pioneers for our patients. It has the potential to help - so let's get it there.
Methods of Medical Cannabis Use
When it comes to medical cannabis, the way you consume is down to personal preference and your clinicians recommendation. They’ll advise a method of consumption based on your symptoms and condition, but they’ll also work with you to find what you’re comfortable with. Remember, you may not choose the right form at first, so speak to your clinician if you have any questions or preferences. Below we’ve got a brief explanation of different ways to use medical cannabis:
- Inhaling: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. However, remember that smoking your prescription is illegal in the UK and could lead to lung damage. So, if your preferred method is inhalation, purchasing a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf is the best solution.
- Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. This method is ideal for longer-lasting relief.
- CBD & THC Oils/Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last longer than they do for inhaling.
- Cannabis Topicals (Creams, Balms, Patches): Applying cannabis-infused products directly to the skin targets localised pain and inflammation. Please note, you should only ever apply a medication topically if it has been advised by your doctor. The majority of medical cannabis products available for prescription are for consumption via inhalation or sublingually only. There are currently no topical products available for prescription at the time of writing this article.
Cannabis strains for endometriosis can vary from person to person. From personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, to you as an individual, this really can be completely different for everyone. It’s best to speak to your clinician about THC vs. CBD for endometriosis relief as well as dosage and any other questions we haven’t answered in this article. They’ll take all of the above into account, as well as your own preferences and opinion. You can also check out our Cannaverse, where you’ll find lots more information on a range of other conditions.
And remember you may not get it right the first time. Medical cannabis can affect everyone differently. And just because someone you know has a certain experience, doesn't mean the same will happen to you. Your body, and everyone else's, is different.
Risks & Side Effects
Every medication comes with potential side effects, and medical cannabis is no different. However, serious side effects are uncommon and can vary depending on personal factors such as your past use, physiology and health condition, as well as consumption method (for example oil, vaporiser, edible), and THC and CBD content.
Don’t worry too much, and if you’re ever concerned, speak to your Doctor. They’ll explain everything in detail ahead of prescribing any medication. But, some potential risks and side effects to keep in mind include:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Appetite
- Psychoactive Effects. However, the ‘high’ feeling cannabis can be associated with is much more controlled with medical cannabis due to the dosage guidance of a clinician.
Also keep in mind that medical cannabis could potentially interact with other medications. If you’re ever unsure, it’s best to speak to your Doctor or clinician.
Summary
So, can medical cannabis help manage endometriosis pain? There’s some evidence that points towards medical cannabis’ potential to relieve some symptoms of endometriosis, particularly on pelvic pain. And this is great, as it could mean the difference between people suffering from the condition being able to live their life. However, more research is needed.
If you have any questions, or want to learn more about medical cannabis and the potential benefits, head to the Alternaleaf website. Medical cannabis can be prescribed for 50+ conditions, so it may be worth completing our 30-second eligibility questionnaire.