Endometriosis: can this chronic condition be treated with cannabis?

Did you know that an estimated 176 million women worldwide are affected by endometriosis? 

Commonly called endo, this chronic condition impacts women during their reproductive years, generally between the ages of 15-50.

The condition earned its name from the word endometrium. This tissue lines the uterus, but in cases of endometriosis, it develops on organs and tissues outside of the uterus. For example, growths can develop on the ovaries, bladder and bowel. This can result in a variety of symptoms including:

• painful periods 
• pelvic pain
• painful intercourse
• menstrual irregularity
• infertility
• nausea, vomiting, dizziness and fainting

As painful as they are, many of these symptoms have been normalized by society. Women experiencing uncomfortable and irregular menstrual cycles are often told their situation is common, and this can result in a lack of diagnosis and treatment.

But thanks to initiatives like Endometriosis Awareness Month and the community surrounding the condition, more information is becoming available every day. Women are seeking more answers from their healthcare professionals and online as well. Interestingly, the word endometriosis is one of the most Googled medical terms, with the condition ranking in the top 20 most searched diseases. 

In our practice, we often have patients experiencing these types of symptoms. Many of them are now reaching for a powerful pain relief option that is making a name for itself in the endo community: Cannabis

Cannabis for Pain Relief

We have discussed the powerful pain-relieving qualities of cannabis in previous articles. The history of marijuana as an analgesic drug has been documented in many cultures over thousands of years thanks to its anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties.

When it comes to fighting the discomfort endured by endometriosis sufferers, cannabis is proving to be an effective alternative to over-the-counter pain medication. A survey recently conducted involving 240 patients confirmed that cannabis use offered moderate to effective pain relief of endo symptoms. The results demonstrate the reality that many patients are already relying on cannabis for endometriosis relief.

Anti-Proliferative Effects of CBD

Endometrial cells share some similarities to cancer cells in that they invade other organs and tissues. Part of understanding and treating the condition in the future will rely on discovering how to limit the growth and migration of the cells outside of the uterus. Although research is still limited, an animal study has demonstrated that CBD has anti-proliferative qualities, which means it has the ability to potentially inhibit cell growth. This research suggests that CBD may be a promising treatment option for conditions characterized by abnormal cell growth.

Endocannabinoid Imbalance May Worsen Symptoms

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a complex biological system that helps our bodies regulate a variety of important functions, such as sleep patterns and mood regulation. The chemical compounds found in cannabis respond well to the ECS receptors found in our bodies. In fact, the ECS earned its name as researchers discovered it while exploring the well-known cannabinoid, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

Research continues to come forward that suggests an imbalance or deficiency of the ECS system can worsen a myriad of conditions, including endometriosis. Not only has an endocannabinoid deficiency been linked with greater pain experienced by endo sufferers, but there is possibly a link between reduced ECS function and the growth of endometrial tissue.

Can Cannabis Help Endometriosis?

Visit our Calgary and Edmonton Medical Cannabis Clinics

Our Calgary and Edmonton cannabis prescribing doctors can help suggest a treatment plan to help manage your endometriosis symptoms. Our team will guide you in selecting a licensed producer as well as the registration.

Appointments for Alberta residents are free and covered by Alberta Health Services. Prior to your medical consultation with one of our licensed physicians, you will be educated on how medical cannabis works in our body and how it reacts to our endocannabinoid system.

During your education session with a Cann-Expert, you will learn:

1. The main differences between an Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid strain
2. Benefits of THC, CBD, and Balanced strains
3. The body’s unique Endocannabinoid Systems (ECS)
4. The timing of inhalation vs ingestion

At the time of your consultation, your Revolution Medical Cannabis doctor will review your medical history and ensure that cannabis will not conflict with any medications you’re currently taking.