Growing Interest and Use Among Midlife Women
Recent studies have indicated a notable rise in cannabis use among women over the age of 45. According to a 2020 cross-sectional study published in Menopause: The Journal of The North American Menopause Society, approximately 27% of women in the study reported using cannabis to treat menopause-related symptoms, including sleep disturbances and mood disorders. Interestingly, only 19% reported using traditional hormone therapy, suggesting a shifting paradigm toward alternative and potentially plant-based options.
How Cannabis Might Help
The human endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates processes such as sleep, mood, appetite, and pain perception, undergoes changes during menopause. Estrogen plays a role in modulating ECS activity, and the drop in estrogen levels during menopause may disrupt ECS functioning. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, may help restore balance to this system.
CBD (cannabidiol), known for its non-psychoactive properties, has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and possess anti-inflammatory effects—qualities that may be beneficial for menopausal women.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive component, may also help with pain relief and mood stabilization, though it carries risks of impairment and dependency.
The Medical Community’s Stance
While anecdotal reports and preliminary research are promising, the medical community remains cautious. Dr. Rebecca Thurston, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, points out that “rigorous clinical trials are needed to truly determine the efficacy and safety of cannabis for menopause-related symptoms”.
Moreover, not all cannabis products are created equal. Potency, method of ingestion, and ratios of THC to CBD vary widely, making standardized dosing a challenge.
Legal and Safety Considerations
In the United States, cannabis remains a Schedule I substance under federal law, although more than 38 states have legalized medical marijuana. Women considering cannabis as part of their menopause care should consult with a healthcare provider, especially if they are taking medications or have pre-existing conditions.
Some researchers also caution that cannabis may negatively affect cognitive function, particularly in older adults, and long-term impacts are still under investigation.
Conclusion
Cannabis shows promise as a complementary therapy for managing the multifaceted symptoms of menopause. However, women should weigh the potential benefits against the risks, speak with qualified healthcare professionals, and consider clinical alternatives such as hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and mental health support.
As public interest grows, so too does the call for comprehensive, long-term studies that can offer clearer guidance. For now, cannabis remains a hopeful—yet largely uncharted—option in the toolkit for managing menopause.
References:
Babyn, M. M., et al. (2020). “Cannabis use during menopause: A survey of Canadian women.” Menopause, 27(6), 645-651. https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000001521
Palomba, S., et al. (2019). “The Endocannabinoid System and the Hormonal Regulation of Female Reproduction.” Frontiers in Endocrinology, 10, 726. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2019.00726
National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2022). “Cannabis and Women’s Health.” Office of Research on Women’s Health. https://orwh.od.nih.gov
National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2017). The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/24625
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