For girls and women, there is nothing more awkward than the lovely lady in red. We’re talking about the one who visits you once a month and brings nothing but unpleasantness. Of course, we are referring to the monthly toil of menstruation, a necessary but painful part of female life. In a bizarre twist, members of the cannabis community have certain claims. Saying using marijuana helps lighten uncomfortable cramps and aching during the menstrual cycle. Still, recent studies have shown that the drug may produce unwanted side effects (not much of a surprise). While cannabis science and reproductive science have yet to mesh fully, females should still be cautious about experimenting with a drug that can (and will) impact health in the long run. How is this possible? Let’s take a closer look at how marijuana can affect the menstrual cycle.
Keep up the Flow
Overall, the average female loses between 10 and 35 milliliters of blood during her period. These numbers can fluctuate greatly each month. Overall, a variety of elements including stress, diet, and birth control can influence how much a woman bleeds during this time. Typically, a heavy flow is caused by an overabundance of estrogen. Also from a low level of progesterone during menstruation, when reproductive hormones tend to fluctuate erratically.
Prior to a period, progesterone levels skyrocket as the uterus prepares for pregnancy. Ultimately, if an embryo does not enter the uterus, the hormone drastically falls. This triggers a progesterone withdrawal. Thus, the thick lining of the womb (endometrial lining), which thickened prior to bleeding, sheds and exits the body.
Cannabis and Menstruation
Based on recent studies, scientists have determined that cannabis use can instigate a heavier flow during menstruation, but keep in mind that research on this subject is still limited. In 1985 a study found THC reduced progesterone levels in uterine cells during experimental treatment. Apart from this, marijuana may also decrease the luteinizing hormone, which can halt the thickening of the endometrial lining and lighten bleeding. How ironic, that a compound responsible for increasing progesterone also reduces bleeding?
Even more bizarre, scientists have found that apigenin (a compound in marijuana) act similarly to the female hormone estrogen, proving that the endocannabinoid system and estrogenic compounds have a singularly unique relationship.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
