As more women approach midlife, they often experience challenging symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause. Hot flashes, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping are just a few of the issues that can disrupt daily life. In recent years, a growing number of women have turned to cannabis as a potential solution to ease these symptoms. A new survey sheds light on how cannabis, particularly CBD (cannabidiol), is becoming increasingly popular among women during this phase of life.
The survey, led by researchers at Harvard and published in the journal Menopause, offers a glimpse into the evolving attitudes toward cannabis use among women in perimenopause and menopause. Nearly 80% of the respondents reported using cannabis or CBD to manage symptoms like anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood issues. With the legalization of marijuana in many U.S. states for medical and recreational use, cannabis has become more accessible, offering a natural alternative to traditional treatments.
The appeal of cannabis for managing menopause symptoms is multifaceted. For one, it’s seen as a quick-acting remedy that can provide relief for a few hours without the need for a prescription. Unlike hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other FDA-approved medications, which require a doctor’s oversight, cannabis can often be obtained legally without a prescription, making it more socially acceptable for some women. In fact, Dr. Heather Hirsch, a Harvard expert and head of the Menopause and Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, notes that more patients are turning to cannabis or CBD products, particularly for anxiety and sleep issues.
However, while cannabis may offer short-term benefits, Dr. Hirsch raises concerns about its long-term safety, noting that there is limited research on its prolonged use in managing menopause symptoms. “We have limited data on the long-term effects of cannabis, and that’s why I caution patients to proceed with care,” she says. “It’s important to balance the immediate relief that cannabis may offer with the need for long-term, sustainable health practices.”
Despite the lack of long-term studies, many women find relief in cannabis products, and this shift in treatment preference signals a growing demand for alternatives to traditional menopause management. In the survey, which included 131 women in perimenopause and 127 women who had already transitioned through menopause, cannabis use was found to be particularly effective for alleviating sleep disturbances, mood swings, and hot flashes. Interestingly, the majority of survey respondents were white, middle-class women, suggesting that cannabis use for menopause symptoms may be more common in certain demographic groups.
As more women turn to cannabis for symptom relief, the conversation about its potential benefits and risks is gaining momentum. Though cannabis may not be a one-size-fits-all solution, its popularity among midlife women highlights a desire for alternative therapies that can address the challenges of menopause. Whether cannabis is a short-term fix or part of a broader treatment plan, it’s clear that women are increasingly seeking options beyond the traditional menopause treatments that have been in place for decades.
As research continues to evolve, it’s essential for healthcare providers to stay informed about emerging treatments like cannabis. While its safety profile remains uncertain, its ability to provide relief from menopause-related symptoms has captured the attention of many women seeking natural alternatives. In the end, as women navigate the complexities of midlife, they will continue to explore what works best for their individual needs and health goals.
