When it comes to women’s health, a range of options exists for support and relief.
For many, cannabis has become part of a broader wellness toolkit, offering potential benefits for managing chronic pain, hormonal shifts, anxiety, and side effects related to cancer treatment.
As research continues to evolve, so does our understanding of how cannabis may support women through different stages of life.
Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis or simply seeking more balance day-to-day, informed choices matter, and we’re here to provide the information that helps you explore what products may be best for you.
Think medical cannabis is right for you? Start the application process with Leafwell.
The Endocannabinoid System and women’s health
The Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of receptors, enzymes, and naturally occurring compounds that help regulate key functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, pain, and hormone balance.
In people assigned female at birth, the ECS plays an especially active role across different life stages, including menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause.
It interacts closely with the reproductive system and fluctuating hormones like estrogen and progesterone as well.
Because cannabinoids such as THC and CBD mimic the body’s naturally occurring compounds, they may help support balance during times of hormonal change.
Although research is ongoing, many people consume cannabis to manage symptoms tied to their cycle, including cramps, mood swings, and sleep issues.
Cannabis and menopause
Let’s talk about it — because not enough people do. Menopause can bring significant changes, and with them, some seriously disruptive symptoms: hot flashes, sleepless nights, mood swings, and a brain that just won’t turn off.
While these symptoms are typically associated with women’s health, anyone with a uterus can experience them.
More people in midlife are turning to cannabis as part of their toolkit for finding relief and restoring balance.
A Harvard survey found that nearly 8 in 10 women who use cannabis in midlife are doing so to manage symptoms commonly linked to menopause, especially sleep issues and anxiety.
For many, cannabis is an approachable option that helps take the edge off without needing a prescription.
While it’s not a cure and research is still evolving, many people say cannabis helps them feel calmer, sleep better, and ride the ups and downs with a little more ease.
Cannabis and endometriosis
Although research is still in early stages, studies from 2021 and 2024 show that cannabis may help reduce, respectively, pelvic and period pain.
Inhalable cannabis, in particular, is reported to provide rapid relief. Surveys suggest that many people with endometriosis use cannabis to lessen their need for other pain medications.
Certain terpenes found in cannabis may add to these benefits:
- Beta-caryophyllene may help manage inflammation.
- Limonene may support an uplifted mood.
- Linalool may promote relaxation.
- Myrcene may help manage pain.
Some cannabis cultivars, such as GSC, are known for high levels of these terpenes and are popular among users seeking symptom relief.
Additionally, CBD is entering clinical trials for use in treating endometriosis.
Cannabis and menstrual cramps
Menstrual cramps, caused by uterine contractions and inflammation, can be painful and disruptive. Cannabis may help ease these symptoms.
Inhaled cannabis (smoking or vaping) is popular for quick relief due to its fast onset, often working within minutes.
Edibles and tinctures offer longer-lasting effects, but since their effects take longer to kick in — up to 45 minutes for tinctures, and up to two hours for edibles — they may be better to use preventively.
Certain terpenes, such as myrcene and linalool, may also relax muscles and reduce inflammation, making some cannabis strains especially helpful.
While research is still occurring, many cannabis consumers report less pain and better sleep during their periods.
Starting with low doses and choosing products that fit your needs can make a big difference.
Cannabis and sex
Cannabis and sex have been paired for thousands of years — and for good reason. Many people find that cannabis helps boost desire, heighten sensations, reduce anxiety, and deepen intimacy.
Studies suggest that over 70% of consumers report increased desire and more intense orgasms after cannabis use.
For a gentle boost, try 1906 Love Drops — THC combined with relaxing herbs and natural aphrodisiacs.
Cannabis and women’s hormones
The ECS, with which cannabis interacts, plays a central role in regulating hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
Due to their shifts across the menstrual cycle, hormone levels can influence how cannabis is experienced. For example:
- Estrogen peaks during ovulation can increase CB1 receptor sensitivity, which may make THC feel more potent or intense during this window.
- THC may temporarily suppress reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone, especially with frequent use.
- CBD may help regulate cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, which plays a role in mood, sleep, and inflammation.
These hormonal interactions may help explain why cannabis is reported to support relief from symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, cramps, and appetite changes during different phases of the cycle.
Want to go deeper? Read Blue Oak’s full guide to cannabis and your hormones.
Cannabis and other women’s health issues
Cannabis may help ease common symptoms like low appetite, pain, anxiety, and mood swings that many women experience at different points in life.
The well-known “munchies” effect can be helpful for those struggling to maintain an appetite due to stress, hormonal changes, or other disruptions.
Cannabis is also widely consumed for its calming and mood-stabilizing effects.
Many people report feeling more relaxed and emotionally balanced after consuming THC or CBD, especially during moments of high stress or hormonal fluctuation.
Sativa cannabis strains in particular may help you feel more uplifted, whereas indica cultivars are more associated with sleep-friendly, stress-busting sedation.
When it comes to pain, cannabinoids like THC and CBD may help reduce the intensity and discomfort of symptoms like cramping or muscle tension, offering a plant-based alternative to traditional pain relievers.
How to get a medical cannabis ID card in New Jersey
If you think you would benefit from medical cannabis, your next step is getting a medical cannabis ID card. In New Jersey, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Create a Leafwell account: Leafwell.com makes it easy to apply for a medical cannabis ID. Just register an account and provide your basic information. You must be 18 years old and a New Jersey resident to apply.
- Schedule your consultation: Connect with a licensed healthcare provider through a virtual waiting room or book an appointment at a future date or time. The fee for a Leafwell consultation is $149.
- Meet with a licensed NJ healthcare provider: Leafwell connects patients via secure video call with a healthcare provider licensed under New Jersey’s medical cannabis program. The provider assesses whether you meet one of the state’s qualifying conditions and are eligible for the program.
- Receive healthcare provider’s statement: Following your consultation, your provider will deliver an Attending Healthcare Practitioner’s Statement that includes a patient reference number and registry ID number. This statement will be available for download through Leafwell.
- Complete state registration: Access the NJ Medicinal Cannabis Program portal using your reference number and registry ID from the provider’s statement. You’ll need to upload proof of identity (such as a driver’s license or state ID), a recent photograph taken within the past 60 days, and proof of residency.
- Wait for approval: The review process typically takes about 30 days. If approved, you will be registered with the state’s medical cannabis program and can download your digital certification for free. You could also obtain a physical card for a $10 fee.
- Visit a dispensary: Once you have your certification in hand, simply bring it alongside your government-issued ID to your favorite dispensary.
Benefits of having a New Jersey medical cannabis ID
Medical cannabis patients receive certain benefits compared to other consumers in New Jersey’s cannabis market. These include:
- Access for patients 18 and older (vs. 21+ for recreational)
- Tax-free purchases (compared to up to 9% for recreational users)
- Higher purchase limits (3 ounces per month vs. 1 ounce per transaction)
- Priority access and patient-only hours at dispensaries
- Valid for 2 years before renewal
Find your wellness with Blue Oak
At Blue Oak, we’re here to help you explore the best products and find personalized solutions that fit your lifestyle.
Stop by anytime to chat with our knowledgeable budtenders and discover how cannabis can support your health journey.
Whether you’re experiencing period pain, menopause, or other symptoms, our space is where you can begin seamlessly integrating cannabis into a balanced lifestyle — and potentially start finding relief.
