CBD for Period Cramps – Does It Help?
Some 64 million Americans have now tried CBD, and more are curious. Many people are interested in knowing what this cannabinoid can do for their health.
Research has suggested many medical uses for CBD. It may help with everything from migraines to arthritis pain.
That has some people asking what other types of pain CBD may be able to help with. For many women, the question is whether you can use CBD for period cramps.
This guide looks at what causes period cramping and pain. Then it explores the science behind how CBD could help.
What Causes Period Cramping Anyway?
For the majority of women, cramps are just another part of their menstrual cycle. For around 5 to 20 percent of women, though, those cramps can be debilitating. Whether you have dysmenorrhea or not, cramping isn’t fun.
So, why do so many women have cramping?
Cramps are actually a normal part of menstruation. The uterus contracts to assist with shedding its lining. This leads to the muscular cramps that are so common.
Pain can also be caused by other factors. The hormone prostaglandin increases during this part of your cycle. Prostaglandin encourages muscle contractions, which is important for your period.
Prostaglandin also increases pain and inflammation though. That’s why taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pill can soothe those cramps.
Women who have a copper IUD may also experience severe cramping. The copper acts as an inflammatory, irritating the uterine lining. That’s actually part of why it’s effective.
So, while you want an IUD to irritate you, you may not appreciate the extra-painful cramping it can produce.
back to menu ↑What Can You Do to Relieve Cramping?
There are a few things you can do to help with menstrual cramping before it even starts.
One of the things you and your doctor can look at is the birth control you use. Women on the pill often have less pain and cramping during their cycle. Most hormonal methods of birth control will moderate symptoms.
You may also want to look at your lifestyle. Women who exercise regularly tend to have less cramping and pain. If you can, try adding some regular exercise to your routine to help combat period cramps.
Finally, take a look at your stress levels. Stress hormones can increase inflammation in the body, which may contribute to pain and cramping.
back to menu ↑Does CBD for Period Cramps Work?
Inflammation and muscle contractions are the key factors in period cramping. That’s why pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxene work. They’re non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which means they relieve inflammation.
Some studies have shown CBD and other cannabinoids can also impact inflammation. The body’s endocannabinoid system is extensive. Many receptors exist in the immune system.
One of the reasons CBD in particular is recommended for arthritis is because it can reduce inflammation. CBD reduces the inflammatory response by limiting proteins that signal the immune system. As a result, CBD may be able to reduce immune reactions, such as the production of prostaglandins.
Some studies have also shown that CBD and other cannabinoids may be able to relax muscles. This means they relieve muscles of contractions and spasms. Since cramps are caused by uterine contractions, CBD may be able to relieve them.
CBD also appears to act on the opioid receptors in the body. Its ability to bind with opioid receptors may be one of the reasons it’s effective for relieving pain.
As you can see, there are several ways CBD can affect the causes of period cramps. It may be helpful for some women seeking relief from cramping.
back to menu ↑How to Use CBD for Period Cramps
With an understanding of how CBD can help period cramps, you might be wondering if it’s right for you.
CBD will help some people find effective relief from their period cramping. It may be able to lessen the effects or even end cramping. If you combine CBD with some of the other tips for reducing cramps, such as regular exercise, you may be able to achieve freedom from period cramping.
Of course, finding effective relief of any symptoms depends on taking the right amount of CBD. You should also use high-quality products.
Often, taking a single dose of CBD won’t be enough to entirely relieve or prevent period cramping. Instead, you may want to consider a low dose on a daily basis. Taking a pre-measured CBD oil capsule in the morning or at night may help.
For immediate relief of period cramps, you may want to consider an inhalation method. Inhaling CBD offers the fastest relief from symptoms, because it hits the bloodstream in short order.
Other methods may also provide effective short-term relief. You may want to apply a muscle rub or take a bath.
back to menu ↑How Much Should You Take?
Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different. As a result, how much CBD they need will be different. You may achieve effective relief from period cramps with a very low dose, while your best friend needs to take a much higher dose.
The best advice is always to start low and go slow.
You should also make sure you’re using high-quality products. Some CBD oils are diluted, which means they have less CBD per milligram. You have to take much more to get the required dose.
If you’re looking for high-quality CBD, check out some CBD reviews. A CBD oil review can tell you a lot about the product, including how well it’s worked for other people.
Make sure you read reviews on a trusted CBD review website. You may want to visit a few to get a larger sampling of people’s experiences with any particular product.
back to menu ↑Say Goodbye to Period Pain
When used the right way, CBD for period cramps can be quite effective. If you want to see if CBD can help you get relief, then take a look at some of the recommended products on this site.
Effective relief of your period symptoms could be closer than you think.