CBD for PMS & PMDD
Recommended products for PMS & PMDD
What are PMS & PMDD?
PMS is a collection of physical, emotional and behavioural symptoms that occur, in varying levels of severity, as a result of the changing levels of the hormones estrogen, progesterone and serotonin throughout the menstrual cycle. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS and whilst PMDD symptoms are similar to those of PMS, they are more severe and can interfere with daily activities and relationships. PMS and PMDD symptoms include:
Emotional and Behavioral - Crying spells, depressed mood, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, or anger, social withdrawal, poor concentration, libido changes, appetite changes, intense food cravings, insomnia.
Physical - Alcohol intolerance, constipation, muscle pain or joint pain, fatigue, headaches, fluid retention, which may lead to weight gain, abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, acne flare-ups.
Why CBD for PMS & PMDD?
As a natural, non-intoxicating and legal compound with no psychoactive effects, many women are using CBD for PMS and PMDD for its benefits in reducing some of the common symptoms experienced. CBD has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps and other types of pain. Additionally, CBD has been found to have mood-regulating effects, which can help alleviate anxiety and depression commonly experienced with PMS and PMDD.
Some women also use CBD for its potential ability to regulate hormones and reduce inflammation in the body, which can help alleviate other PMS and PMDD symptoms such as bloating and headaches.
A 2019 review concluded that CBD could be viable option for managing symptoms of PMS and a more natural alternative. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on PMS symptoms.
CBD and period pains
CBD has been shown to help alleviate period pains, also known as menstrual cramps or dysmenorrhea. With its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with menstrual cramps. By interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, CBD may modulate inflammatory responses and provide relief.
CBD has also been reported to have muscle-relaxing properties. Menstrual cramps are often caused by uterine muscle contractions. CBD can help to relax the uterine muscles, easing the intensity and discomfort of cramps. Through its interaction with various receptors in the nervous system, it may additionally help modulate pain signals, making period pains less intense and more manageable. Read more about CBD and other types of pain here.
How to take CBD for PMS
Depending on the PMS or PMDD symptom(s) you're looking to manage will depend on which product is best for you to use. For anxiety, mood changes, sleep issues or period pains we'd recommend using a CBD oil as its easily absorbed into the body, fast acting and easy to dose. Find out your personalised recommended dose with our CBD dosage calculator.
For skin conditions you may benefit from using a CBD cream as well as taking a CBD oil.
The science...how does CBD work?
The body has its own system of cannabinoids and receptors called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). CBD works by interacting with the body's ECS, impacting our bodies largely by binding to proteins, or receptors, that are located on the surface of our cells, thereby initiating certain physiological responses; such as serotonin receptors, known to influence things like pain, anxiety, mood, and sleep. Read more about how CBD works in our journal.
Q&A on CBD for PMS & PMDD
Is CBD good for PMS?
There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may be beneficial for PMS. CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate menstrual cramps and other types of pain commonly experienced during PMS. Additionally, CBD has been found to have mood-regulating effects, which can help alleviate anxiety and depression commonly experienced during PMS. Some women also use CBD for its potential ability to regulate hormones and reduce inflammation in the body, which can help alleviate other PMS symptoms such as bloating and headaches.
However, it's important to note that research on CBD and PMS is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on PMS symptoms.
Is CBD good for PMDD?
There is some evidence to suggest that CBD may be beneficial for PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), which is a more severe form of PMS. CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate physical symptoms commonly experienced during PMDD. Additionally, CBD has been found to have mood-regulating effects, which can help alleviate the emotional symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and depression that are often present in PMDD.
However, similar to PMS, research on CBD and PMDD is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand the effects of this compound on PMDD symptoms.
What is the best CBD dose for PMS?
There is no single "best" CBD dose for PMS. Optimal dosage should be based upon the individual and depends on factors such as body weight, individual tolerance, and the severity of symptoms. It's important to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired effects.
A good starting point for CBD dosage is 10-20mg per day, divided into two or three doses. You can then gradually increase your dosage. Enter your details into our CBD dosage calculator to find out your personalised recommended dosage.
Can I use CBD for PMS mood swings?
CBD is a natural way of managing mood swings associated with PMS used by many women. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which plays a role in regulating mood, stress, and anxiety.
Whilst scientific research specifically on the use of CBD for PMS is limited, some studies do suggest that CBD may help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
Can I use CBD for PMS irritability?
CBD has been reported to help with PMS-related irritability. CBD has a calming effect on the body and can help regulate mood by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which is involved in mood regulation.
Some studies have suggested that CBD may also help with anxiety, which is often a contributing factor to PMS-related irritability. However, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on PMS symptoms, including irritability.
Can I use CBD for PMS headaches?
CBD may be helpful for managing PMS-related headaches. One of the ways CBD may help with headaches is by reducing inflammation and pain in the body. CBD interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain and inflammation.
Additionally, CBD may help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common triggers for tension headaches. As with other PMS symptoms, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on PMS-related headaches.
