Women have unique medical needs, but also face significant barriers in getting useful medical advice and treatment. U.S. women lagged behind other high-income countries, reporting the lowest level of satisfaction with healthcare according to a report by The Commonwealth Fund. In looking for effective treatments for common health conditions, an increasing number of women are turning to medical marijuana. Women who want to explore or continue medical marijuana treatment should consult a caring, knowledgeable medical cannabis doctor to see if they qualify under Florida medical marijuana conditions.
Women and Medical Marijuana
Many women are reluctant to pursue medical marijuana treatment due to a perceived stigma. Almost three-quarters (70 percent) of women believe that cannabis use carries a stigma, and more than 60 percent of women who use cannabis hide their usage according to a survey by Van der Pop. Fortunately, that stigma is lessening, and for women who are concerned about perception, there are discreet delivery methods that do not advertise medical marijuana use.
Medical marijuana is a proven treatment method for conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety and insomnia. Cannabis is also a powerful treatment for conditions that specifically impact women, including PMS symptoms, endometriosis, pain during sexual activity, and menopause.
Women’s Health Issues and Medical Marijuana Treatment
Although many women’s health conditions and symptoms improve with medical marijuana treatment, it’s vital to work closely with an experienced medical cannabis doctor, such as Dr. Daniel P. Stein at Neurology of Cannabis. During an initial visit with Dr. Stein you will discuss your symptoms and explore whether medical cannabis is likely to help.
Here’s a listing of common women’s health conditions and issues along with the ways medical cannabis helps relieve symptoms related to the conditions and issues:
PMS
Medical research into women’s health in general lags behind other health issues, and research around women’s health and medical marijuana use is even more sparse due to cannabis being classified as a Schedule I drug on a federal level. There is promising initial research, along with anecdotal evidence, that medical marijuana helps to alleviate the cramping many women experience during PMS. Medical marijuana may also help to regulate the mood swings many women experience before and during their periods. It can help balance hormone levels and create a sense of calm.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful condition caused by the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus. In addition to pain, it can also cause heavy bleeding, spotting, fertility issues, and digestive problems. Medical marijuana can help regulate and improve appetite and is known to reduce chronic pain.
Sexual Health
Medical marijuana can treat a wide range of women’s sexual health issues. It can help increase libido and it can help alleviate pain or discomfort during sex. Although research in this area is limited, there is strong anecdotal evidence. For example, 27 percent of female cannabis users reported using cannabis to enhance their sexual experiences, according to a recent survey by BDS Analytics.
Menopause
Women going through menopause experience a range of symptoms, including insomnia. Medical marijuana helps alleviate insomnia and may help alleviate other menopause symptoms as well. More than one-third of female menopausal cannabis users use cannabis to improve insomnia, and another one-third use it to relieve other symptoms, according to the BDS Analytics survey.
Mental Health
Women are twice as likely to have an anxiety disorder as men, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. Women are also more likely to have multiple mental health disorders, and the most common combination for women is anxiety and depression.
Medical marijuana is known to be an effective treatment for anxiety, producing a feeling of calm. It may also help to regulate the hormonal fluctuations that cause mood changes in many women.
Obtaining Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana is an effective treatment for many health conditions impacting women. To obtain medical marijuana in Florida, you can start by setting an appointment with a reputable, high-quality medical marijuana practice such as Neurology of Cannabis. To make the most of your appointment and your medical marijuana treatment:
- Request your medical records before your appointment: Your medical marijuana doctor will review your medical records to assess whether you meet the criteria for Florida medical marijuana conditions. Your provider will also review your records to formulate an effective treatment plan.
- Make a list of your questions and concerns: Medical care is stressful for many women. Make a list of any questions or concerns you have about medical marijuana and share your list with your doctor.
- Discuss a delivery method: If you have concerns about discretion, share those concerns with your doctor. Vaping and tinctures are both discreet delivery methods that are popular with medical marijuana users.
- Track your experience and ask for changes: Keep a log or diary of your medical marijuana use and symptoms. Contact your doctor’s office if you experience side effects, are not experiencing symptom relief, or if you have any other concerns.
After your initial visit, your medical cannabis practice will add you to the Florida medical marijuana registry. You will need to visit the registry website and complete your registration to obtain a Florida medical marijuana card.
Compassionate Care for Women
You deserve high-quality health care from a doctor who will take your symptoms, and your experiences, seriously. At Neurology of Cannabis, we understand that women have unique needs, and we believe medical cannabis can help improve your quality of life. Our practice is led by Dr. Daniel P. Stein, who has more than 25 years of medical practice experience. His background in neurology gives him unique insights into medical cannabis and its impact on mental and physical health.
At Neurology of Cannabis, you’ll find a professional environment and a warm welcome. We are happy to answer your questions and alleviate your concerns. If you are considering medical marijuana for a women’s health issue, contact us today. We’re ready to help.
