Over a quarter of the world’s population experiences menstruation, a process which can cause a whole list of uncomfortable symptoms - including painful cramps.
Pain relief options have traditionally been taken orally, but we’re here to shine a light on the benefits of using CBD for menstrual cramps - and why delivering it vaginally can help.
What is CBD?
CBD - or ‘Cannabidiol’ - is a natural chemical compound known as a cannabinoid. It is derived from the hemp cannabis plant, and is non-intoxicating.
Or In other words, it won’t make you high! CBD doesn't contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana that so many of us associate with that cannabis ‘high’.
Menstrual Cramps Symptoms
During menstruation, the endometrium or uterus lining sheds. During this process, the wall of the uterus starts to contract to help the shedding, which causes cramps.
These are often felt as throbbing or aching cramps in your lower belly - and sometimes the back and thighs - just before and during your period. Some people feel this pain more than others, and because it can affect the back, legs and hips, the whole body can feel fatigued.
Not to mention, these cramps we feel are also happening in the digestive system (ahem… period poops).
5 Reasons To Use CBD For Menstrual Cramps
Anti-inflammatory properties
Due to its natural anti-inflammatory characteristics, CBD can help lessen the pain and swelling brought on by menstrual cramps.
Research has shown that CBD can reduce discomfort by acting on specific receptors in the body, and inhibiting the release of neurotransmitters to regulate pain.
No known negative side effects
CBD for period pain relief is becoming increasingly popular due to its lack of known side effects.
In contrast to more conventional painkillers, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, CBD is a very safe form of pain relief.
Helps control hormone imbalances
Hormone imbalances, which can worsen period cramps, can be controlled by CBD. This is because our body’s endocannabinoid system (or ECS) - which maintains hormone balance - is composed of cannabinoid receptors and endocannabinoids.
CBD interacts with these receptors to help balance hormones and provide pain relief.
Reduces anxiety and tension
Menstrual cramps are frequently accompanied by anxiety and tension, both of which may be reduced with CBD.
While more research is needed in this area, CBD is thought to ease anxiety by helping the body process serotonin, a hormone and neurotransmitter that regulates mood and anxiety.
Simple to use
CBD comes in a range of forms, including capsules, tinctures, suppositories and topical creams, allowing it to be tailored to your needs.
CBD suppositories are effective for period pain relief as they hit the blood system directly, delivering more targeted, localized pain relief.
So Why Should We Take Suppositories Vaginally?
CBD is effective for pain
CBD interacts with our Endocannabinoid system, which is made up of cannabinoid receptors that send signals to the brain. One main function for these receptors is to regulate signals of pain.
By modulating the activity of these receptors, CBD can help regulate the brain’s response to pain. In fact, research indicates that CBD is 30 times stronger than Aspirin in providing pain relief - and it can be safer to use, too.
There are benefits of CBD for menstrual cramps
Cramps happen when the pelvic floor muscles are clenched. CBD - and vaginal suppositories in particular - can help relax muscles and relieve cramp discomfort.
Because they also bypass the liver, CBD vaginal suppositories hit the bloodstream directly. They localize pain relief in the vaginal tract, offering a more targeted relief from period pain.
Benefits of CBD suppositories
When medication is taken orally, it has to go through your gastrointestinal (GI) tract before it hits your bloodstream. This means that many of the ingredients don’t get fully absorbed.
By delivering CBD to cannabinoid receptors in the female reproductive system, CBD vaginal suppositories hit the blood system directly. As a result, they offer a more targeted, localized drug delivery - and therefore more effective relief from period pain.
Final Thoughts on CBD For Menstrual Cramps
Our knee-jerk reaction is often to reach for traditional over-the-counter pills when we’re seeking pain relief for menstrual cramps.
However, CBD products - especially CBD suppositories - can relieve period pain symptoms quickly and more effectively by delivering CBD directly to the cannabinoid receptors in the female reproductive system.
CBD can help to restore the endocannabinoid balance, which, when off balance, can aggravate menstrual cramps.