As one of the most challenging periods in the life of any woman, menopausal symptoms can be extreme. For years, many solutions have been sought to try and help women find a semblance of peace and comfort during this uncomfortable time. However, many solutions have proven to be inconsistent at best. Across Canada, though, and wider North America, the legalization of cannabis – for medical and/or recreational use – has brought a new tool to the fight against menopause.

Indeed, many women in Canada are now visiting stores like this in a bid to help free themselves of the stress and turmoil of menopause. Since 2018, Canadians have been able to buy recreational cannabis. And while the industry has endured some inconsistency and some controversy, it has been a relative success so far. Research staff at the University of Alberta began to research if the use of Canada’s latest recreational legality could be beneficial to women with menopause.

The hope was that it could assist with many of the most irritating symptoms of the condition. From insomnia and night sweats to general mood swings, the intention was to find out if the use of cannabis products could lighten the load somewhat.

So far, research is still underway, and peer-reviews are still being waited on for many of the largest studies. However, anecdotal responses so far have seen many women dive in with both feet to try it out. As friends and family report personal benefits, other women are keen to see if they can replicate the same boost to their general mood and mindset.

Currently, responses show that some females found they were able to sleep better and were in generally better control of their moods. More research, though, is essential.

An interesting start

With menopausal symptoms an issue without a clear solution for many years now, various efforts have been made to find solutions. However, the challenge with anecdotal evidence in such a discussion comes down to personal circumstances. Some users might have stronger tolerance, might buy from different sources, and may even consume their cannabis differently.

As such, while many women are finding a positive boost, and research does appear to be in the affirmative, there is no go-ahead just yet. Women who are going through menopause are still recommended to speak to their physician to try and find a stable solution to minimising the severity of the symptoms that menopause can bring on.

More research is needed, then, especially as recreational and medical use can differ so much. This is especially true in Canada, where recreational numbers have grown considerably. As such, many more people are using at different rates and strengths from one another; coming up with a clear answer from the small information available so far is not possible.

For the first time, though, we are moving closer to finding out just how useful cannabis consumption could be in dealing with menopausal symptoms.