Why Thousands of Women with Endometriosis Are Turning to Cannabis – And What’s Holding Them Back
A new international study has revealed that women living with endometriosis are increasingly using cannabis to relieve their symptoms—often with better results than traditional medicines. But despite these reported benefits, legal, financial, and social barriers continue to block access to this plant-based option.
The research, published in Reproduction & Fertility, surveyed 889 people diagnosed with endometriosis across 28 countries. All participants had used cannabis—either THC or CBD products—in the previous three months to manage their condition.
Over three-quarters (77.7%) of respondents said cannabis worked better than their previous medications, and 78.2% experienced fewer side effects. An overwhelming 90.2% said they would recommend it to others with the disease.
Why Cannabis?
Endometriosis, a chronic and often painful condition affecting around 1 in 10 women globally, has no cure. Standard treatments—ranging from hormone therapies to surgery—can bring serious side effects or offer only temporary relief. Many patients in the study reported turning to cannabis because of:
- Poor pain management from prescribed medications
- High costs or lack of insurance coverage for standard treatments
- Limited access to medical specialists
- Unexpected relief discovered through recreational cannabis use
One respondent put it simply: “It was the only thing that helped me sleep and function like a human being again.”
Legal and Social Hurdles
But the path to relief isn’t easy. Participants described major obstacles, including outdated drug laws, high costs, and fear of legal trouble. Nearly half (46%) of those using cannabis illegally said they didn’t tell their doctors, mostly out of fear of being judged or punished.
“There’s a big communication gap between patients and healthcare providers,” said researchers from Western Sydney University, who led the study. “This gap leaves patients vulnerable—not just to legal risks, but also to ineffective care.”
Even in Canada, where cannabis is fully legal, most participants said they bought it from recreational dispensaries instead of going through the more complex medical system.
Calls for Change
The authors call for major reforms: more research into medical cannabis for endometriosis, better education for doctors, and clearer, fairer regulations to ensure safe and affordable access.
The study underscores a key point: cannabis is not a cure-all, but for many living with endometriosis, it offers a lifeline. And until the barriers around it are addressed, patients may continue to navigate treatment in the shadows—alone and underserved.
Related Research on Cannabis and Health
This study is part of a growing body of research exploring how cannabis compounds may offer relief for a variety of conditions. On our platform, you can read about the use of cannabinoid-infused gold nanoparticles in cancer treatment, a 2025 study on medical marijuana for chronic pain, and advances in cannabis genetics for personalized therapies. As the science evolves, so does the potential for safer, more effective cannabis-based care.
FAQ: Medical Cannabis for Endometriosis
Q1: Is cannabis a recognized treatment for endometriosis?
A: Not officially. While cannabis is not yet a standard medical treatment for endometriosis, many patients report significant symptom relief. Research is ongoing, and some doctors may recommend it in regions where medical cannabis is legal.
Q2: What are the main benefits of cannabis for people with endometriosis?
A: According to patients, cannabis helps with pain relief, improves sleep, reduces inflammation, and lowers reliance on pharmaceutical medications with harsher side effects.
Q3: Are there risks or legal concerns with using cannabis for endometriosis?
A: Yes. In places where cannabis is still illegal, users may face legal risks. Additionally, concerns include inconsistent product quality and the lack of medical supervision. Always consult a healthcare provider familiar with local laws.
Q4: What types of cannabis products are most commonly used by endometriosis patients?
A: Products range from CBD oils and edibles to inhaled forms like dried flower or vape cartridges. The choice depends on symptom type, legal access, and personal preference.
