Does Weed Help IUD Cramps?
Who would have thought that a device often used to reduce menstrual cramps can cause cramps? Yes, today we’re talking about IUDs. An IUD or intrauterine device is a hormonal contraceptive inserted into the uterus. There are many reasons why people opt for an IUD, such as to improve period symptoms and prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately, some people end up with IUD cramps after insertion. We know that cannabis is often used to alleviate pain. So, does weed help with IUD cramps? Here’s what we know.
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Does Smoking Weed Help IUD Cramps?
IUD cramps are not unusual after insertion. According to Healthline, the pain is due to the cervix opening to fit the IUD. Therefore many people experience pain during and after insertion.
Healthline says, “These cramps may gradually decrease in severity but continue on and off for the first few weeks after insertion. They should subside entirely within the first three to six months.”
While there are many ways to deal with pain, there aren’t any studies that examine whether cannabis helps IUD cramps specifically. However, we know that it has anti-inflammatory properties used for pain management, with promise for conditions like Dysmenorrhoea.
Cannabis for Painful Menstrual Cramps
In their scientific article, “Dysmenorrhoea: Can Medicinal Cannabis Bring New Hope for a Collective Group of Women Suffering in Pain, Globally?“, researchers explored the potential of medicinal cannabis in treating dysmenorrhoea (painful menstrual cramps). While cannabis-based products like CBD and THC show promise for pain relief for conditions like dysmenorrhoea, the current scientific evidence is still limited.
So far, most existing studies are either small or inconclusive. For instance, one study conducted in December 2023 aimed to evaluate the efficacy of CBD-infused tampons for alleviating primary dysmenorrhea. In the clinical trial, 63 participants self-reported pain levels over three months using a modified Mankoski scale.
The investigation compared CBD-infused tampons with placebo tampons, and participants rated their pain and satisfaction during each menstrual cycle. The tampons showed significant pain reduction and mood improvements, especially at the onset of menstruation. However, larger clinical trials are needed to establish the best methods for treatment of menstrual cramps with cannabis.
Reddit Personal Experiences with Weed for IUD Pain
Since the science isn’t conclusive, we turn to reports from cannabis smokers.
Some people report that smoking weed has helped to alleviate their IUD cramps. One Reddit user said, “Smoking in the evenings before bed really helped dull the pain and lull me to sleep gently.” Another one said, “I actually started smoking to help with the cramps.”
However, other people find that using weed makes their IUD cramps worse. According to a Reddit user, “I got the Paragard IUD put in about a week ago, smoked weed three times since then, two out of the three times my IUD cramps got worse/felt more intense.”
Everyone reacts to cannabis differently so none of those experiences are surprising. You may find that using your bong helps your IUD cramps.
However, Healthline says to seek medical attention if the pain is severe and persistent.
Can I Smoke Weed Before an IUD Insertion?
Many people are unprepared for the pain of an IUD insertion. Web MD states, “You may feel cramping and discomfort as it’s being put in. You may feel nauseated or dizzy. Or you may have no symptoms at all.”
That’s why it’s common for people to consider doing preemptive pain management. Although it’s not recommended that you do medical procedures high, CBD may be a viable option since it could make you feel calmer before your appointment.
Can I Smoke Weed If I’m on Birth Control?
Even if weed alleviates your IUD cramps, you may wonder it can make birth control less effective or cause other problems.
According to Healthline, there is no evidence that cannabis makes birth control less effective. There aren’t enough studies that examine the relationship between the two.
However, there is some concern about whether or not the two could interact. Both weed and birth control can have adverse effects on your heart.
Healthline says, “If you have a heart condition, this effect can be a problem, and using hormonal birth control at the same time could worsen the effects.” If this pertains to you, it’s important to talk with your doctor.
How to Reduce Pain before IUD Appointment
Before going to your appointment consider these helpful tips from WebMD:
- Eat a meal and keep hydrated.
- Do breathing exercises to relax.
- Schedule your appointment during the days of your menstrual cycle when your cervix is the softest.
- Take 500mg of ibuprofen or naproxen an hour before the procedure.
More Ways to Alleviate IUD Cramps
If smoking weed isn’t helping your IUD cramps, you have other options. With that, here are some ways you can alleviate IUD cramps.
- Heating pad – Healthline says it’s worth a try to relieve IUD cramps with a heating pad or a hot water bottle. Heat, in general, could work so you can soak in your bathtub to achieve similar relief.
- Take over-the-counter medication – WebMD says your doctor will probably recommend acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen to take every couple of hours.
- Acupressure – Touching specific pressure points on your body may be able to alleviate cramps. For example, pressing your thumb into the arch of your foot may provide relief.
- Supplements – Certain supplements such as omega 3 and vitamin B6 can help reduce long-term cramps. Ask your doctor before purchasing any supplements.
- Exercise – Healthline recommends throwing on some sneakers and go for a jog since exercise can help reduce cramping. The same advice is given to people with period pains.
Final Thoughts: Need for More Research
Does weed help IUD cramps? There currently isn’t enough scientific evidence to support or refute this claim. Although smaller studies seem to support that it does, larger clinical trials are needed. That said, some people have found that using weed after an IUD insertion helps relieve pain while others have the opposite experience. If weed doesn’t help your IUD cramps, you can opt for other pain management methods outlined above. Consider seeing your doctor if the pain is too severe and persistent.
