Top 5 Ways Cannabis Can Affect the Menstrual Cycle

Round menstrual cycle chart and cannabis plants against the background

Cannabis, with its rich spectrum of phytocannabinoids such as THC and CBD, has long been used in traditional medicine relating to fertility and reproduction. Now, scientists are beginning to discover just how important the endocannabinoid system is to the biological mechanisms controlling these fundamental processes.

Does cannabis use affect fertility and the menstrual cycle? The menstrual cycle is complex, and cannabis might influence several aspects and stages. Let’s see what modern research has to say:

1. THC may reduce fertility during ovulation phase

There have been a number of studies conducted on the relationship between the endocannabinoid system and the female reproductive cycle. It has been repeatedly shown that levels of the crucial endocannabinoid anandamide vary drastically at various points of the menstrual cycle.

Anandamide levels appear to be highest at the point of ovulation—the moment that the egg is released from the ovary. As anandamide is an agonist of cannabinoid receptors, one might expect that high levels of THC (which is also an agonist) would not necessarily be detrimental to ovulation.

However, a handful of studies from the 1970s and ‘80s suggest that THC has a strong ability to block ovulation in many mammals, including primates (although there do not appear to be any studies specifically on humans). It appears that THC does so by suppressing the production of a hormone critical to the ovulation process, known as luteinizing hormone.

A chemical formula of THC against the cannabis plant in the background

As with most aspects of cannabinoid science, more research is required to establish exactly what the link between cannabis use and ovulation is. Interestingly, however, it does appear that tolerance to the ovulation-blocking effect of THC may build up in habitual users.

2. Cannabis can reduce painful cramps during menstrual period

Traditionally, cultures all over the world have used cannabis in herbal medicine to treat painful menstrual cramps. Famously, the British Queen Victoria was also said to have used cannabis to soothe her painful cramps. Given that her personal physician was the renowned cannabis doctor William B. O’Shaughnessy, that story is most likely true. The fact that she knighted him some years later, suggests that she must have really appreciated it!

A woman with stomach ache lying in a bed

Today, many women continue to use cannabis to soothe their painful cramps, and experience great subjective relief. Despite this, there have been no formal studies to back up its efficacy, and the underlying biological processes at work have not been defined.

However, it is well-known that THC can act as a powerful analgesic and antinociceptive agent. An analgesic is a general term for painkiller; antinociceptives specifically stop the nerves from sensing pain signals at all. As both THC and CBD have the ability to reduce inflammation, this may contribute to the subjective reduction in discomfort.

For those searching for pain relief without the psychoactive effects of THC, CBD can be an adequate solution.

3. Cannabis use may suppress key hormones during premenstrual phase

During the premenstrual phase (which is also known as the luteal phase), hormonal fluctuations can cause a wide range of symptoms. These include pain, irritability, mood swings, fatigue, and bloating. It is well known that levels of certain hormones, including progesterone, significantly increase during this phase (while other hormones, such as oestrogen, become depleted).

When those symptoms are abnormally severe symptoms, this phenomenon is called premenstrual syndrome, or PMS. For years, doctors have prescribed supplementary progesterone as a treatment for severe PMS, but recent research indicates that this is ineffective. The general consensus has been that abnormal premenstrual symptoms are linked to progesterone levels being low at a time when they should be high. In fact, some forms of PMS appear to be linked to excessive progesterone levels and reduced oestrogen levels.

Clearly, premenstrual symptoms severe enough to be classed as PMS are a result of hormonal fluctuations and imbalances. Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that cannabis use can have several effects during the luteal phase (the window between ovulation itself and commencement of the menstrual period).

Cannabis use can:

Again, we have to note that the precise mechanisms at work have not yet been fully researched and verified. But it is clear that the endocannabinoid system has a role to play, and that women who experience abnormal symptoms at this time may benefit from targeted cannabinoid therapies.

Indeed, there are countless women throughout the world who experience subjective relief from cannabis during the premenstrual phase, although this may result from the known anti-anxiety and relaxant effects of cannabis more than from direct influence on hormonal levels.

4. THC may decrease length of menstrual cycle

The evidence for THC causing a shortened menstrual cycle in humans is sparse, but worth mentioning. A 1986 study on the effect of THC on luteinizing hormone observed the overall duration of menstrual cycles decreased in women given cannabis compared to those given a placebo.

Three female rhesus monkeys and a baby rhesus monkey

Interestingly, older studies on non-human primates indicate that THC may alter cycle length, but not necessarily shorten it. In a 1980 study on rhesus monkeys, the sample treated with THC overwhelmingly exhibited significant increases in cycle duration. One monkey had a cycle length of 145 days, compared to the usual 30!

Obviously, more research is required before it can be said with any degree of certainty how and if the duration of the menstrual cycle is affected in humans. As with the ovulation-blocking effect of THC, it may be that tolerance to any possible effect builds up rapidly.

5. THC may affect embryo implantation in the uterus

There have been several important studies published over the last decade or so, investigating the finely-tuned influence of the endocannabinoid system over various key processes relating to conception and early pregnancy. Several of these studies have found that anandamide levels fluctuate dramatically throughout the monthly cycle. In particular, they show that anandamide levels are at their lowest during the “implantation window”.

Note: The implantation window refers to the brief window of time in which the embryo can successfully implant in the endometrium of the womb. This window typically occurs 6-10 days after ovulation and lasts roughly three days.

In studies where anandamide has been artificially increased at this stage, implantation has generally failed to occur. Given that anandamide and THC are both agonists of the cannabinoid receptors, it seems that consumption of THC during the implantation window could cause the same effect. However, this concept is overly simplistic, and does not necessarily hold up with such a complex system as the EC system.

Further research is needed to verify the association between high-THC cannabis use and the blocking of a fertilised ovum from being implanted in the endometrium during the implantation window. Until then, to be on the safe side, users who want to get pregnant should probably cease use of cannabis at least 24 hours prior to their implantation window opening.

THC for non-hormonal birth control?

THC does appear to have the ability not only to inhibit ovulation but also prevent implantation of fertilised eggs in the endometrium. This suggests that there could be the potential for THC, or compounds like it, to be used as the basis for non-hormonal birth control drugs.

Birth control pills on the right side and a cannabis plant on the left side

However, as tolerance build-up appears to be something of a problem with THC itself, there are probably better candidates out there for targeted research. After all, if consistent THC use alone were enough to prevent pregnancy, fertility rates would be drastically lower in heavy cannabis users compared to the general population, and there is no indication that this is the case!

Interestingly, there is substantial evidence that cannabis use enhances sexual pleasure in users, which could help to counteract any negative effect on fertility rates!

  • Disclaimer:
    This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor or other licensed medical professional. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard medical advice due to something you have read on this website.

Comments

99 thoughts on “Top 5 Ways Cannabis Can Affect the Menstrual Cycle”

  1. Ladies- it is interesting to note that both covid, and the covid vaccine also effect periods. I having been having serious menorraghia for months and I have used both cbd and full spectrum to help with my symptoms, but now i am going to try going off them to see if that helps.. i am also trying to find other herbs that can alleve all this heavy bleeding. ladies, make sure you are getting your iron, vit c and d, because you cab get anemia and other things. i am still looking for answers to these issues- bummer.

  2. I had been smoking marijuana daily since I was 18. A year ago, I moved to a state where it’s still illegal and so I stopped using/smoking regularly & switched to delta 8 and cbd edibles for a few months until I was comfortable enough to stop taking all together. I gained like 50+ lbs. Last June, I turned 40 and a friend gave me some weed as a gift. The day after, I started my period that was extremely heavy and lasted for 2 weeks. My periods have always been routinely medium to heavy flow, lasting 6-7 days and I’ve only ever been 2-3 days late or started up to 5 days early. That was the last time I’ve had any cannabis related items. Then, the following month I skipped my period completely. Worried I was either pregnant or hitting early menopause. 2 weeks later I finally start period. Again, very heavy and lasting 10 days. September comes and it’s the same, heavy for 10 days. October comes and after months of dealing with depression, anxiety, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, stomach ache, severe heartburn, migraines, and intense body pains I decide to start taking cbd edibles again. Got rid of all of those horrid symptoms. 1 week later I start spotting. 2 days later the heavy flow starts back up. I had just finished my last period only 2 weeks before, so I stop the cbd once again thinking it might be the cause… My period still hasn’t eased up in the slightest. Today is the 28th. I’m going on 20+days of heavy period and blood clots. I don’t know what to think? I’m at a complete loss! Contemplating going back on cbd now because insomnia and nausea are back hardcore! I’ve never taken birth control but now wondering if I should to help get back to a somewhat normal cycle? At the same time, my mother had endometriosis and had a hysterectomy at 40 so that kinda worries me too… If it’s early menopause that’s ok! I’d just rather have no periods at all then these heavy prolonged ones. Ugh!!! So aggravating!

    1. Mark - Sensi Seeds

      Good afternoon Birdie,

      Thanks for getting in touch with us and sharing your experiences with cannabis!
      Unfortunately, I don’t have an answer, but I hope everything gets back to normal for you again soon 🙂
      Perhaps one of our other readers will have some ideas.

      You might also enjoy our article on What Is the Endocannabinoid System and How Does It Work?
      In the meantime, I hope you continue to enjoy the blog.
      Have a great day,

      Mark

      1. I am sorry to tell you this, but I believe you are in early menopause. You have lots of the symptoms I had while in peri-menopause.

        Rhonda

    2. Friendly Neighborhood Poster

      Please see a doctor! Lots of things can lead to heavy and irregular periods beyond cannabis products. (Endometriosis and fibroids being just two examples). A good gynecologist work up will get you the best answers fast.

  3. Me the same! I’ve been a heavy smoker for years. I quit smoking, drinking and changed my diet from vegetarian to carnivore about two months ago (also lost weight) My period is 24 days late! I took a pregnancy test and is negative. I’m confused and thinking that my hormones are taking time to realign again.? Someone can relate?

    1. Looking ForAnswers

      Hi Yaya, did your period return to normal? I am in a similar boat. Heavy smoker for 20 years, quit drinking 10 months ago, no issues, but quit smoking 3 weeks ago, and I started spotting (very lightly) 5 days early but no actual period. I’m concerned about potentially sparking a premature menopause by quitting so abruptly after such heavy prolonged use, but can find very little info about these symptoms in quitters, only users. I’m perplexed.

      1. I was a heavy user for years and stopped abruptly – started my period 3 days early and its going strong 2 weeks later – im still clean and i am planning to be for several months for a tolerance break – hope its just my cycle trying to get normal.

  4. I took 2 seeds about 3 months ago and that was the last time I saw my periods…how can I reverse it…I want my periods back

    1. bestie im afraid to tell you this.. you’re probably pregnant, marijuana seeds cant delay ur period for months

  5. Joie Tartaglia

    Omg finally someone who I can relate to. I have pcos and have had it since puberty. I have had less than a dozen periods in my life and I am 40 next month. i started using marijuana consistently about 4 months ago and I have gotten my period for 3 consecutive months. NEVER happened before, even using birth control pills. I don’t know yet if I am ovulating as well because I don’t typically do that either, but after this one I plan on taking an ovulation test each day until either I get a positive or I menstruate again so I can tell if it is all in working order. The ONLY life change I’ve made is the addition of daily marijuana use. Congratulations on your pregnancy!

    1. Finally Someone I can relate to I’m 20 and only had 3 periods in a lifetime starting 2021 I got 3 regular periods but when April came I didn’t have one

    2. Laura Berry

      I’m looking for info online because my periods have been coming regularly since I’ve been using cannabis. Before this, I would get a period maybe 1-2 times per year. I miss not having them because now I’m hormonal and getting bad cramps like I’m 13 again. Ugh. I guess it’s a good thing, but I hate it.

  6. Hi, I have been using marijuana every day for 5 months and my menstruation has stopped for 4 months. is this normal?

    1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

      Hi there,

      Thank you for your comment. We are sorry to hear about your situation. As Sensi Seeds is not a medical agency or practitioner, we cannot give any kind of medical advice other than to consult your registered healthcare professional.

      You may also find it helpful to contact a support group for medicinal cannabis patients. In the UK there is the United Patients Alliance, and throughout much of the rest of the world there is NORML, who should be able to put you in touch with a group in your area (search United Patients Alliance or NORML followed by your area name).

      With best wishes,

      Scarlet

  7. I took weed before and during my period for the first time and usually my cycle is 7 days but this time it was 4 days and I had no cramps at all.

  8. This was interesting to read. I have been using cannabis daily for over five years, with great consistency. I use the implant Nexaplanon as well, which is said to remove or reduce blood flow. This is the case for me, as I stopped having a period at all. However, on two occassions, after one week of not smoking daily/multiple times, I got a period on the seventh day ‘clean’ if you will. I hope this information helps someone in my shoes seeking answers. Thanks for reading!

  9. Shortened my daughter’s menstrual cycle — 29 year old female with 2 children. Basically, had almost the opposite effect as some of these “beneficial” “let’s sell some CBD products” items listed above.

    1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

      Hi there,

      Thanks for sharing your daughter’s experience, which would seem to be borne out by point 4 – “THC may decrease length of menstrual cycle

      The evidence for THC causing a shortened menstrual cycle in humans is sparse, but worth mentioning. A 1986 study on the effect of THC on luteinizing hormone observed the overall duration of menstrual cycles decreased in women given cannabis compared to those given a placebo.”

      I’m curious about your comment some of these ‘“beneficial” “let’s sell some CBD products” items listed above.” We don’t list any products in this article (all the links in the text go to scientific papers which support the points in the article) and many of the points list THC as the active principle, rather than CBD.

      I hope you continue to enjoy the blog,

      With best wishes,

      Scarlet

  10. So if CBD causes our period to stop, is that bad? I’m 49 and I don’t want to get pregnant and I don’t miss my period, so can I keep taking CBD oil?

  11. I am a heavy user of marijuana due to having anxiety and extreme back pain. After I began using high-level THC marijuana every day, multiple times a day, after a few weeks, my periods completely stopped. I’m 19 years old, healthy, and have no signs or symptoms of any reproductive issues. At first, I thought I was pregnant, have since taken multiple pregnancy tests to reveal that is not the case. I have not had a period in over three months.

    1. I have an irregular menstrual cycle. Sometimes it stops for six months or more. I am 28 now, not married, and never been sexually active, and have not menstruated for a year and six months now, and I have chronic back pain when stressed.

      Have been taking birth control pills to help with my menstruation. But still haven’t menstruated. I was diagnosed with early menopause three months ago.

      My mom suggests that I start taking CBD oil so i can menstruate and for fertility.
      I’m afraid cbd oil might stop my period completely.

      PLEASE ANY ADVICE ON WHAT I SHOULD DO?

      1. Stop taking birth control . I started in 2019 and I’m just getting a period in January of 2021 . I was 145 when i started i now weight 271 pounds . I’ve became depressed stressed i have anxiety and i get angry easily . I wish i would’ve used something instead of birth control it isn’t good for our bodies . When my period comes I’m having migraines , cramps , vomit and doing #2 . It sucks and i deal with it for 7 days . Sorry about what you’re going through i hope things get better because periods sucks . Oh and btw I’m 22 .

      2. Go for mizan therapy, it uses castor oil to massage the abdomen area this regulates your hormones. After about 4-6 sessions your periods should hopefully regulate.

        You also might be stressed do meditation via some apps and drink 2 litres of water a day.

  12. I have been using cannabis on and off for years but just recently started using it constantly. My husband has stage 3 Parkinson’s disease and refuses to use it alone. So I started using it with him and since I’ve been using it everyday my menstrual cycle has completely stopped. I like the fact that I don’t have to go through the pain every month but and have noticed it is made me very irritable not having a menstrual cycle. I feel crappy all the time. My husband’s tremors stop, he can speak more clearly, he can walk without any assistance, he is the man that I married 20 years ago. So it has I helped him in a lot of ways and if it continues to help him I will continue to use it even though it makes me feel like crap

    1. There are different ways of ingesting it which can affect you differently as well as can other strains of thc! If what you’ve been using has been making you feel crappy. Try some other kinds or forms 🙂

    2. Love, Actually

      Maybe you can try using different products? Or a lower dose? I love your devotion to your husband but there must be alternatives to living like this.

  13. shaniah Rinehart

    I have pcos (polycystic ovarian syndrome) and endometriosis that causes me a lot of pain. I started using THC for the pain and it has been amazing! Normally I would be in the fetal position in bed but now I’m able to go about my daily life. Also, once I started using it consistently it helped regulate my period. I used to go months without a period now it’s been like clock work for the past 2 years. Lastly, I recently found out I’m pregnant! And I believe it has everything to do with the THC and geranium essential oils I use. I’m sooo beyond thankful!

  14. Unfortunately due to my age and other health issues I have entered perimenopause and I’m bleeding 24/7 for almost a year now and the doctors will not do a damn thing to help me. So I was wondering is there a chance that marijuana could help me stop bleeding for any length of time? I’m absolutely desperate at this point and don’t know what to do because I can’t live like this.

    1. Hi Jessica,

      I smoked weed quote heavily everyday for about 20 years and had very regular periods.
      Towards my mid 40s the periods got very light and started to be less frequent. I was extremely thin at the time which I think was the reason.

      Then I gave up weed and all hell broke loose about a week later…. I had the longest heaviest period I’ve ever had – flooding for 14 days during a 30 day bleed – so bad I went and had loads of tests at the hospital and no one could find anything wrong. After a few weeks it stopped, but then a month later it started again and with the exception of a few weeks here and there I’ve been bleeding constantly for 4 years and often its extremely heavy (flooding).

      I’ve tried progesterone tablets but they didn’t change a thing. I have to take high doses of iron everyday to combat the anaemia from blood loss and it’s really affected my life. I use transexamic acid to control the bleeding when it’s really heavy.
      The doctors say it’s probably peri-menopause and have offered me the mirena coil (with progesterone) or a hysterectomy (I can’t have ablation), but my hormone levels test normal (as much as anyone can tell) so I refuse (especially as progesterone didn’t help me before).

      I stumbled across this blog today and realised for the first time that the ONLY thing that I changed in my life before these crazy periods was stopping weed a week before. It may be a complete co-incidence, but thought I’d mention it. I’m half wondering if I should try a smoke and see what happens! But I don’t want to become a weed addict again at nearly 50…. (Ive got an addictive personality – luckily I’m also addicted to very healthy food and exercise!)

      Let me know how you get on. Constant bleeding is horrendous to live with. Sending you best wishes.

      1. Question to Sara

        Sara, I would be very interested to hear how things worked out for you. I have a very similar situation. I have been a heavy smoker for many years and have not used any birth control. When I wanted to get pregnant I would quit and it would happen right away.
        Every time I’ve quit without getting pregnant my period goes crazy, heavy bleeding for 2-3 weeks with a shortened cycle. Tbh though I’ve never managed to quit for much longer than 4 months.
        Hormone treatments (including birth control) make me depressed so it’s not an option.

      2. I relate to this. 49. i stopped cold turkey after several years daily
        use – 3 days later my
        period started and hasnt stopped for 2 solid weeks..i i’m gonna let it go for five more days if it doesn’t start tapering off I’m gonna call my gynecologist

  15. I started using medical marijuana as a post-menopausal female and after one month using daily had a period after 3+ years of no periods. I bought a capsule of liquid higher in CBDs. I noticed sore breasts and then voila, a heavy period. I researched and found it was likely the CBD mimicking estrogen. I would like to know if others had this effect. Also, my friend who has always smoked daily has yet to go through menopause despite being 59 years old. I think this is significant.

    1. Hi there yes I started the CBD oil for pain, I am post menopausal and my hot flashes stopped and I am so happy about that though with in a couple weeks my period started as well and came in extremely heavy should I be concerned I have not had it now for almost two years.

  16. I smoke everyday at least 10 times a day… And last night I was smoking and all of a sudden I got thee worse worst cramps ever.. I could sleep through out the night and still going through them as we speak but it seems like the weed kicked in my cramps and every time I’d hit my bong I had thee worst pain every time they went away when I stopped smoking… I’m gonna smoke now hopefully the same doesn’t happen..

  17. does hash cause a delay in the menstrual cycle and does it affect the pregnancy test showing that it is positive or it does not have to do with that?

  18. I’ve been a heavy smoker for about ten years now and a couple years ago I quit for, roughly, six months. During that time I noticed that I started spotting during ovulation regularly. Previously, I’d only experienced this every once in awhile, perhaps two times a year, if that. Honestly, I started to HATE it, although, I’m sure it was just my body trying to re-establish its normal reproductive responses/hormones/etc. I wonder if I had continued to not smoke, if the spotting would have eventually dwindled down (as soon as I started smoking regularly, the spotting stopped again). In any case, it freaked me out at first and I didn’t find much useful information about it at the time. I really hope more studies surface on this subject, we have a huge gap in information about how THC and cannabinoids impact the body over a long period of time. I’m interested to see the results of more awareness and scientific research on this. Thanks for the article, it made me feel less insane about the whole thing.

  19. Hello, I’ve had abnormal periods all my life.. I can last 2 weeks straight on my period and 1 week off and back on again.
    Do you think cannabis would help shorten that?

    1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

      Dear Cindy

      Thank you for your comment. We are sorry to hear about your situation. Unfortunately, as Sensi Seeds is not a medical practice, we are not able to provide any advice relating to medical situations other than to consult your doctor or other licensed medical professional. This article, written specifically for healthcare providers who may not be aware of the many properties of cannabis, may be useful to you in talking with your doctor. You could also try to contact local medicinal cannabis support groups, if you have not already done so. In the UK, there is the United Patients Alliance (you can find them on Facebook) and in the US and EU there are many branches of NORML (google NORML followed by your area name). We hope this is helpful.

      With best wishes,

      Scarlet

    2. I’ve had horrible periods all my life as well. The past 2 years they have been 3 weeks apart with extreme bleeding. I started cbd oil 2 months ago and haven’t had a period since. I’ve taken 2 pregnancy tests and am not pregnant. Relieved and confused. It has to be the cbd oil.

  20. Interesting to read that others also experience it the other way around.
    I have an implanon (tube) for birth control, it’s my second already and for 4 years I haven’t had periods. However since a couple of months I’m smoking weed a couple times a week. My periods came back, every 3 or 2 weeks and very badly 🙁 I hope it doesn’t mean I can get pregnant though…
    Also the first days of my period I’m having paranoid feelings and super depressed, never had anything so bad before. I’m now quitting weed to see if it’s the cause.

    1. I have implanon for 8 mounths now. I started cbd during last period it prelonged it and also made me cramping unusualy plus passing huge pieces of tissue together with bleeding so badly. Im. So upset cause it actually helped me huge time with my mood swings and being so bloody stressed. Im 99 sure this is it. Has your problem stopped with quitin?

  21. I recently stopped smoking after being a habitual smoker for over a decade. My period is now 9 days late, but I don’t think I’m pregnant. Could my period be late bc I just quit smoking? Does marijuana have the potential to affect my cycle like this?

    1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

      Dear Mel

      Thank you for your comment. We are sorry to hear about your situation. Unfortunately, as Sensi Seeds is not a medical practice, we are not able to provide any advice relating to medical situations other than to consult your doctor or other licensed medical professional. This article, written specifically for healthcare providers who may not be aware of the many properties of cannabis, may be useful to you in talking with your doctor. You could also try to contact local medicinal cannabis support groups, if you have not already done so. In the UK, there is the United Patients Alliance (you can find them on Facebook) and in the US and EU there are many branches of NORML (google NORML followed by your area name). We hope this is helpful.

      With best wishes,

      Scarlet

  22. I’ve been taking CBD oil capsules for a month now and my period is a week late (I’ve never been late before, and my husband cannot have children). I was having horrible migraines with my periods that would put me out for a week or more that’s why I started the CBD treatments. I haven’t had 1 migraine since the first week of taking the cbd caps but now my period is a late but I’m way grumpier than ever when I’m suppose to have my period. The only thing I changed in my life was the CBD. Has it stopped anyone else’s periods or am I starting Menopause at 43?

    1. I have been taking CBD oil capsules for the past month (just stopped 2 days ago) and I am over two weeks late with my period. I have never ever been this late before, very regular normally. Took three pregnancy tests, all negative. The only thing I did different was the CBD. Starting to freak out a little but after reading your comment feeling a bit better now. I am 40. I took the capsules to relieve intense joint and muscle pain that has been bothering me for month now.

    2. Hi MJAX. I can totally relate to your situation. I have been on HIGH doses of CBD (oil), THC and THCA to management my epilepsy, fibromyalgia, and pain from a cyst in my sacral bone. I have been on the combination of all three oils for about 8 months now. Weaning of pharmaceutical treatment cause I got tired to all the side effects of prolonged use. Dealt with the withdrawal from them but the cannabinol kept the withdraw effects to a minimal. Here is where i think we are in same situation… that after 6 months in the regiment of canna, I have been delayed for almost 2 months and it’s been stressing me out cause I fear being pregnant. Took 3 EPTs (1 week apart) and been negative. Not sure why but the only thing new is the canna in my system. I read about how CBD and THC can effect the balance between estrogen and progesterone and I fear my doctors (traditional medicine) will not be able to help since they are not versed in the use of canna for their patients. Any insights would be good.

  23. I have been a regular more than once a day cannabis user for sometime. I’ve noticed the more I used it the later I get my period. Closer to 45 days that to my normal 28-29 days.
    Unlike most women I actually enjoy getting my period so this sucks for me. Every time I stop smoking or eating cannabis within 5 days my period starts. Including when I would stop two weeks in. Omg it was horrible then because my body would fall into menses twice and deplete nutrients too fast.

  24. I have been smoking weed for the past years now, but for like 3years now it has been like everyday stuff. But wondering like seriously why i have not taken in for my man and we do have sex like everyday without protection. My fear is that is it the weed that is affecting me not to conceive?

    Thank you as i awaits your response

  25. i went of for birth control about a year and a half ago, about the same time that i started smoking daily. i didn’t get my period for about a year and a half and have been constantly smoking, mostly for anxiety. i have however noticed my anxiety has been better the past 3 weeks and drastically cut down on smoking. i just got my first real period in that time!

  26. I’m 21 and started smoking every day a month ago (three weeks after last period) and I’m usually very regular. Every 28-29 days for 3-5 days at a time. My first period after starting daily cannabis use was super late, six weeks between the end of my last period and the start of the current one and I’ve had light bleeding for almost two weeks now? Not sexually active so my only ideas are the weed or stress but I’ve been stressed all year (and this has only been causing lighter than normal periods but otherwise regular).

  27. Bridget Said

    Ever sinds i started smoking, i ve noticed that my menstruation is irregular.
    It all started in august, in august i did not had my menstruation but then in 2 september i had my menstruation in seven days. But in October i missed my period so the whole month i did not see any blood. and now 2 november i had my menstruation again so am wonderen if it cause of the weed.
    help!

    1. I was a daily smoker for the period of 2 years..I had a bit irregular menstruation, but with heavy bleeding and bad cramps – it usually came a few days later with almost 5 days of only light spotting, but bad PMS which sometimes begun two weeks before I started bleeding..the last summer my period came almost a month late, and this repeated again a second time before fall..in fall i stopped taking mariuhana completely and after three weeks off ganja came my first mensturation. No PMS, no prolonged light spotting as before, no cramps!! I’m now a second month off ganja and my second menstruation is as good as the one last month..coincidence or did marihuana really mess up my period before??

  28. Ok. I have a situation here. I got a tubal ligation 3 years ago. But i havent had a period in 3 months. I am a heavy cannabis smoker? Can smoking too much cause my absent menstural?

    1. I have used cannabis for a few years regularly and have not had a period since. I do experience mild hot flashes and insomnia. Mind you, I am at that age when it supposed to stop, but for it to entirely stop dead in its tracks? Definitely think weed plays a big part in this. No complaints here though 🙂

  29. this is my second month on the oil and i have lost weight, my blood sugar numbers are coming down (type 2 diabetes) and most of my joint pain is gone. i stoped my periods 9 years ago and i am spotting at the moment so i do think it does something, i am hoping its fixing things.

    1. I stopped my period 4 years ago- hot flashes was so bad I had to get on hormones. Started edibles daily for fractured rib pain, and started having cramps about 1.5 weeks later-
      Today I began spotting. Can’t be a coincidence,
      Either a body healing result or hormone fluctuations from the edibles.
      I’d like to see more research and I also like to know if I could get off the darn synthetic hormones…

      1. Hi Cindy, I went through the opposite. I stopped getting my period. So I am not sure exactly if the edibles you took are the cause since they usually have lower levels of THC and CBD in it. plus from most stories I hear don’t really cause a sudden reaction such as a week later. But everyone’s body is unique and it would really help if there were more research on this how it affects the reproductive system.

  30. Ashley Shane

    I have been smoking marijuana for years and I have never missed or had any alteration to my menstrual cycles. I have gone through periods of time where I stopped smoking and I still never missed a period when I started smoking again. My husband and I are trying to get pregnant and today I missed my period. I took a home Clearblue test and it came out negative. I have read that early on in pregnancy your HCG levels are not high enough for a home test to be positive so it is best for a blood test to be drawn. One of my friends has missed her period from smoking after not smoking for about a month. Why is this so hard??? Lol.

  31. Need to know I get something similar to hot flashes almost every night since I started using cannabis, any one experienced that b4

    1. Hi KK, I’ve been on high does of CBD, THC and THCA and been having awful hot flashes, so much gas (which I have never really had in my lifetime).

  32. I have an unusual situation here. I have a grown daughter with special needs. She hasn’t had her period in about 10 years…. it’s been nice since she needs others to take care of that for her. But it’s not normal.
    I started her on CBDs for chronic pain about a month ago. (It has been a miracle for her pain) Well guess what? She got her period.
    I am shocked.

    Is it possible that the CBDs healed her reproductive system?
    Anyone?

    1. Jillian thats amazing! Your story is the first I’ve heard of this type. I’m trying to educate my very close minded mom on Cannabis use for her health and she’s having female issues. This article gave me hope that CBD can help her too!

      1. Yes, me too! I can’t find any CBD success story about getting a period back – curing amenorrhea.

      2. I have PCOS and my cycle is typically 35 days up to 6 months. Last month I only had old bleeding (brown blood) and very light. 4 days ago I started a thc cbd tincure 2:1 ratio and bam full blown period on the 3rd day. It is like when I took progesterone to induce a period. I am not sure if this will be the norm but it will be nice if it is. Plus my body doesn’t hurt I can just jump right out of bed instead of rolling and grunting.

    2. I also have PCOS and have panic attacks and anxiety . i can go 9 months to a year with out a menstrual . but since i started smoking weed for my panic attacks. i have had a menstrual every month . cor the last 7 months i am also taking cbd oil hemp seed oil.

    3. I’m so glad I found this post, I have had issues with my menstrual cycle stopping for months at a time, and it hasn’t been figured out yet (over two years) I started taking cannabis (thc/cbd) in November. This month my menstrual cycle returned and believe it or not I am relieved and can only think it’s my cannabis use that might be helping? I can not find much to suggest this though.

    4. I came on here looking for information as I have been using CBD oil recently, not even very much just a few drops of 2.75% in the evening a few times a week and to relieve period cramps. I have just had two 28 day cycles in a row for the first time in my life and felt it was related to the CBD oil. Previously I have suffered with bloating and discomfort in the final stages of my cycle with irregular length of between 32-40 days and sometimes missed periods if too tired or stressed. I hope the 28 day cycles continue, they felt altogether more comfortable.

      1. Wow, this is what I was looking for. I had taken CBD oil for 2 weeks and it immediately stopped my hot flashes completely, but then I had a 2 week very heavy bleeding period, when I hadn’t had one for 2 years! It just got me thinking that if CBD oil helps your hormones, and also detoxes your body, could it have caused that period?

      2. Terry Ambrose

        I am 66 years old. I have not had a period since I was 53. I have been using the CBD oil for about 6 weeks and now I am experiencing a slightly bloody discharge. This is crazy!!

    1. I had 1 day of bleeding during ovulation, then got my period as normal 2 weeks later. Does that help? So I’m taking a break from the CBD oil for the time being. But I’m also on Benzo withdrawal, which can also affect the menstrual cycle.

  33. What a relief to read this:) After taking hemp seed oil daily for 5 months my menstrual cycle stopped. After lengthy investigations by my GP, no apparent cause could be established. I cut it out, just incase and a month or so later it returned. I am delighted to read this as I thought it might be early menopause. So, goodbye to the hemp seed oil from me:)) …and thanks to you for the info!

    1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

      Hi Liz,

      Thank you for your comment 🙂 May I ask, just to check, do you mean oil containing THC or other cannabinoids? Hemp seed oil contains only negligible amounts of cannabinoids so it is surprising, although no means impossible, that the hemp seed oil stopped your periods. It does contain various plant hormones, but I need to do more research on this to take a guess at how this could affect menstruation. Happy for you that your cycle is back to normal and it’s not early menopause!

      With best wishes,

      Scarlet

      1. Well i recently haven’t had a menstrual for 2 months possibly due too cannabis use the plan is to stop and see if it returns . Well how r your ‘FSH’ levels now back to normal

      2. My daughter is 25 and has autism, I started her on Hemp oil for seizures and she has not had a period since December, she has always been regular until we started the oil so I believe that it does affect the menstrual cycle.

    2. Hi Liz are you saying that the help seed oil made your period cycle go back to normal? You know I’ve been having issues with my cycle ever since I got off birth control which was the implant in my arm and the shot which I got the day I took my implant out. Please write me back with more info.

    3. I am so glad to read Liz’s story. I started taking hemp oil about a month ago through my doctor and I haven’t gotten my period. And knowing that I’m not pregnant, I had to associate it with the hemp oil and decided to google it. I never miss a cycle and usually it comes early. But there is no sign of it in sight! Now I have to find out what happens to your body if you don’t get your period. If negative affects, I will have to stop taking the hemp oil I guess. Thank you for the info!

      1. Scarlet Palmer - Sensi Seeds

        Hi there,

        The evidence and studies on the different effects that cannabis can have on the menstrual cycle are indeed contradictory, so that is what we’ve reported. Both the plant and the human body have incredibly complex biochemistry, and sometimes – such as with this topic – there are no straightforward answers.

        I hope you continue to enjoy the blog,

        With best wishes,

        Scarlet

  34. I have been smoking marijuana for years ,have 3 kids . And going threw menopause and it helps with hot flashes and mood swings and it helps with my lupus

  35. thanks Seshata your post are always awesome.
    i have learned a lot about them.
    i confirm what you said, my girlfriend and have noticed before.

      1. Very true my dear. Im literally going through it as we speak. My overies are failing due to prolonged use of marijuana. Do.your research love

    1. It seems like the same idea, because if you think about it there is only 5 days out of a month that you can get pregnant. In those 5 days, if they miss the window of time that the implantation occurs, they can not get pregnant until the next month when they ovulate again. I wouldn’t suggest it as a preferred method of birth control, but it is in a way similar to a condom. Keep in mind that you should also be using other birth control methods along with condoms because they are less than 85% effective when used correctly under ideal conditions.

      1. “…there is only 5 days out of a month that you can get pregnant.”

        No. No you are so wrong that laying the foundations to explain how wrong you are would take too long for me to explain.

      2. This comment is very unreliable as you can get pregnant up to, and until you begin to bleed. You have better chances in your said “window” but if it were that difficult to get pregnant, there wouldn’t be as many people as there are today as I know women before 1960 probably didn’t know about this information. It’s also not as if women just have sex on those days too, so that argument has been proven time and time again to be false.
        Also, condoms are 98-95% effective now, according to https://www.emedicinehealth.com/ask_how_often_do_condoms_fail/article_em.htm and various other websites. Your information isn’t backed up by sources so I can’t tell if it’s you or what, but your comment is very misleading. Do NOT use marijuana as a birth control!!

    2. Monica,
      I would not rely on weed as your primary source of birth control. Go to a Planned Parenthood and get on any form of medically proven birth control. I have the implant in my arm. It lasts for 4 years and you never have to worry about taking a pill. It prevents pelvic cancer and is more effective than getting your tubes tied. Do some research and find what’s right for you!

      1. Truth be told I was later diagnosed as chemically sensitive, ask Dr cook women’s health. Hormone chemicals comprises body chemistry…

    3. So the week before my period when I smoke weed it really messes with me. Just during this time period only. I get chest pains and anxiety from weed but only the week before my period.

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    Sensi Seeds

    The Sensi Seeds Editorial team has been built throughout our more than 30 years of existence. Our writers and editors include botanists, medical and legal experts as well as renown activists the world over including Lester Grinspoon, Micha Knodt, Robert Connell Clarke, Maurice Veldman, Sebastian Maríncolo, James Burton and Seshata.
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    Sanjai Sinha

    Dr Sanjai Sinha is an academic faculty member at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York. He spends his time seeing patients, teaching residents and medical students, and doing health services research. He enjoys patient education and practicing evidence-based medicine. His strong interest in medical review comes from these passions.
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