CBD for Cramps

menstrual cramps

Dysmenorrhea is something that affects 90% of reproductive-age women and you probably haven’t even heard this term before. This condition is otherwise known as “cramps.”

a woman holding a heating bottle for her menstrual cramps

This is a familiar experience for many women during menstruation that can come with varying degrees of pain and can at times be debilitating. This may be a refresher from your sixth grade health class, but cramps often are triggered by a women’s monthly period which is when the blood and tissue lining the uterus leaves the body since it isn’t needed to protect a baby. This also leads to lower progesterone levels. As this happens, it can cause inflammation and therefore result in painful cramps.

Often, many turn to Ibuprofen or another NSAID (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug). These can be effective but also have been said to cause other side effects including digestion issues.

Using CBD for Cramps

CBD for Cramps - Summary

Treatment for cramps with an NSAID is most common, but CBD for cramps is a growing alternative. In fact, CBD releases the same prostaglandin-producing enzyme that helps alleviate inflammation, but without the gastrointestinal side effects associated with other of these types of drugs. This makes it a more natural but still effect means of treatment to help manage cramps.

a woman holding a pillow while lying on her bed to help her cramps

Why CBD May Help With Menstrual Cramps

In addition to the benefit of CBD being a more natural solution with little known side effects, it can also help with cramps in several ways as it works in conjunction with the human body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). CBD is a known anti-inflammatory. By reducing inflammation, it will lead to relief from side effects caused by this reaction. Additionally, CBD is both muscle-relaxing and vascular-relaxing. When the muscles relax and blood is able to flow, it can also help to relieve any painful cramps.

Tips for taking CBD for Cramps

There are number of different ways to ingest CBD dependent on your preference. It is important to find a type of treatment that fits your health needs and comfort. Some CBD product categories that may be most beneficial for cramps include oils, capsules and even suppositories.