From Cramps to Calm: How CBD Can Soothe Menstrual Pain. Let’s talk about one of the more unpleasant sides of being a woman–period cramps. Almost all of us, about 84% of women, in fact, experience menstrual pain, otherwise known as Dysmenorrhea. In addition to cramping, many women also suffer from nausea, back pain, fatigue, bloating, and diarrhea before and during their “time of the month.” Hormonal changes may be what kicks off these symptoms, but the exact cause is still unknown. For some, symptoms are mild (but still very annoying!), but for about two to 29% of women, the pain can be severe, interrupting their daily lives. While it may feel like relief is hard to come by, there are a few steps you can take to ease the pain, including one remedy we want to dive into a bit more, CBD, or cannabidiol.
First, Why Do We Experience Menstrual Cramps?
Menstrual cramps occur because the uterus is contracting, or tightening up. There’s a hormone called prostaglandin that increases during a period, making the uterus tighten and ultimately causing some ouch-worthy discomfort. The contractions help the body shed that uterine lining, which is the blood and tissue that are discharged from the vagina during a period. Once the period begins, hormone levels lower a bit, helping ease the symptoms after a few days. Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms can start a week or two before your period, and usually subside a day after your period starts.
How Can I Ease My Period Cramps?
If only there was one simple cure! Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help feel better and minimize period pain.
1. Get a workout in
Research shows that exercising can help reduce cramps. It’s also believed that the release of endorphins can act as a natural painkiller. Get moving for less pain and a boost in your mood.
2. Have sex (and masturbate)
Ok, hear us out! We know intimacy may be the last thing on your mind, but having an orgasm can actually help ease headaches, cramping, and other painful symptoms. It’s all about those endorphins again! That release can work wonders for your body and mind. Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide to period sex.
3. Take a bath
This one isn’t so hard to sell. Who doesn’t want to take a soothing, warm bath? The heat brings blood flow to the pelvic area, relaxing those muscles that are causing all the contractions. Add some salts or bath oil for extra relaxing aromatherapy.
4. Hydrate
Drinking water and eating a water-rich diet can help minimize bloating by keeping your digestive system running smoothly. There was even a study that suggests staying hydrated can actually decrease the duration of menstrual bleeding and pain severity. Drink up!
5. Try CBD
According to a 2019 study, CBD or cannabidiol may be helpful in providing pain relief. While more research is needed, CBD is known to help with inflammation and easing tension, two major PMS issues.
Why Is CBD So Effective?
CBD is our favorite wonder ingredient! Why? According to Harvard Health, CBD is believed to modulate the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates many psychological processes like pain, mood, and immune response. By working with this system, CBD can help ease pain and inflammation, ease anxiety, and even help with sleep. We love how CBD promotes relaxation, setting the vibe and reducing anxiety.
How Can I Incorporate CBD Into My Period Care?
Have you ever tried a CBD-infused suppository? It’s about to rock your world. Our Hunter Intimacy Melts with CBD aren’t just for sexual lubrication, although it does work wonders in that department. These little melts can actually be used regularly or daily to enhance tissue oxygenation and soothe discomfort for both menstruation and menopause symptoms. Our 100% all-natural and organic full spectrum hemp CBD-infused suppository (THC ≤ 0.3%) can be used as a daily moisturizer to help ease tension and improve skin elasticity. Insert vaginally five to 10 minutes before sex, or whenever you need a little relief.
Want a little more CBD in your life? Check out the rest of our CBD-infused lube collection and experience more pleasure, every day.
ABOUT UPSTATE MARY
At Upstate Mary, we celebrate the power of plants and the beauty of self-care. Our Farm to Bedroom™ collection is designed to support pleasure and connection at every stage of life, whether you’re navigating menopause, postpartum, or simply exploring your sensuality. Formulated with organic botanicals and full-spectrum CBD, our intimacy oils and suppositories nurture your body without disrupting its natural balance.
Rediscover your pleasure with Upstate Mary.