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Healthline has sole editorial control over this article. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. The information in this article is intended to be general in nature. It’s not intended to be a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the active compounds derived from the cannabis plant. But unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD doesn’t have the telltale intoxicating effects, which means it doesn’t produce a “high.” Instead, its use is therapeutic.

CBD is increasingly being explored as a treatment for myriad conditions, from high blood pressure to heart disease to endometriosis.

Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition in which tissue grows outside of the uterine cavity. This can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and fertility issues.

While clinical studies on CBD and endometriosis are limited, some people say it helps with symptoms.

Read on for a look at the research on CBD for managing endometriosis, as well as a few products you may want to try.

CBD glossary

  • Full-spectrum CBD: a full-spectrum CBD that includes all components of the cannabis plant, including terpenes, flavonoids, and up to 0.3 percent THC per federal law
  • Broad-spectrum CBD: a broad-spectrum that retains most components of the cannabis plant with the exception of THC
  • CBD isolate: a CBD isolate, which has had all other cannabis components removed
  • Entourage effect: an entourage effect suggests that THC, CBD, and other parts of the cannabis plant work better in combination than they do alone

Keep in mind that any CBD product, regardless of type, may contain trace levels of THC, which could be enough to show up on a drug test.

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First, it’s important to clarify that CBD isn’t a cure for endometriosis. Still, it could help manage some symptoms associated with the condition, including pain and cramping.

While there isn’t any current research on CBD and endometriosis pain specifically, there are clinical trials in the works. In the meantime, some people claim that CBD helps them manage pain, in general. In a 2018 survey of 2,409 people, pain was the most commonly reported reason for using CBD.

Limited research backs CBD’s ability to reduce pain. Research from 2018 found that CBD works well for relieving chronic pain related to cancer, neuropathy, and fibromyalgia.

However, research from 2020 cautions that CBD doesn’t always relieve pain. In addition, a small 2021 study that compared CBD with a placebo for managing arthritis pain found no difference between the two.

Another small 2021 study tested the effects of CBD on pain in 15 healthy adults and found that pain outcomes can be affected by both using CBD and the expectations of receiving CBD.

Your body has what’s known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). It’s made up of:

  • Endocannabinoids: These molecules are made by the human body. They’re similar to the cannabinoids found in cannabis. These compounds work on receptors found throughout the body.
  • Receptors: CB1 receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system. CB2 receptors are typically found in the peripheral nervous system.
  • Enzymes. Enzymes break down endocannabinoids after they’ve carried out their functions.

Some cannabinoids, like THC, are known to bind to ECS receptors. Other cannabinoids, like CBD, interact with the system in a different way. One theory is that CBD slows the process of breaking endocannabinoids down, allowing them to remain effective for longer.

Though the ECS was identified more than 20 years ago, researchers are still trying to fully understand its role in the body. So far, we know that it helps regulate processes in the body, including:

  • sleep
  • mood
  • appetite
  • memory
  • fertility and reproduction
  • pain sensations

Most significantly for people with endometriosis, research from 2017 suggests that the ECS interacts with many of the pain-associated mechanisms of this condition. Researchers say that influencing the ECS might be a good strategy for relieving pain.

CBD is available in many forms, including:

If you’re hoping to relieve symptoms of endometriosis, like pelvic pain and cramping, topicals applied directly to the abdomen or an oil taken beneath the tongue will likely be the most effective.

We chose these products based on criteria we believe indicate safety, quality, and transparency. Each product:

  • has completed third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab
  • is made with hemp grown in the United States
  • contains no more than 0.3 percent THC, according to the certificate of analysis (COA)
  • passes tests for pesticides, heavy metals, and molds, according to the COA

We also considered:

  • company certifications and manufacturing processes
  • product potency
  • overall ingredients
  • indicators of user trust and brand reputation, including:

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $30
  • $$ = $30–$60
  • $$$ = over $60

Best full-spectrum CBD oil for endometriosis

Lazarus Naturals Full-Spectrum CBD Tincture

  • Price: $
  • CBD type: full spectrum
  • CBD potency: 50 mg per 1-milliliter (mL)
  • COA: available on product page

This full-spectrum, high-potency CBD oil is available in four flavors and four sizes. Customers praise it for its flavors and efficacy.

The oil is certified organic and cruelty-free. Lazarus Naturals also has an assistance program for veterans, people on long-term disability, and low-income households.

Pros

  • It has an affordable price point and offers assistance programs.
  • It’s available in multiple sizes and flavors.
  • It’s certified organic and cruelty-free.

Cons

  • It’s a full-spectrum product, so it does contain THC.
  • Some customers dislike the taste.
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Best CBD patch for endometriosis

PureKana Infused CBD Patch

  • Price: $
  • CBD type: full-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 60 milligrams (mg) per patch
  • COA: available on product page

These patches are applied on or near the site of discomfort. They’re a good alternative to messy topicals or sublingual products.

According to PureKana, a single patch can be kept on for up to 4 days. The patch is waterproof, so it should stay put.

With aloe vera and moisturizing coconut oil, the patches are also designed to be gentle on the skin and hypoallergenic. One thing to note is they do contain palm oil.

Pros

  • It’s potent.
  • It’s hypoallergenic and waterproof.
  • It’s considered convenient for traveling.

Cons

  • It’s a full-spectrum product, so it does contain THC.
  • It can present higher costs if you use it every day — best for occasional use.
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Best broad-spectrum CBD gummies for endometriosis

cbdMD Tropical CBD Gummies

  • Price: $$$
  • CBD type: broad-spectrum
  • CBD potency: 25 mg per gummy
  • Count: 30 gummies per container
  • COA: available online

Each bottle of these gummies includes multiple flavors: tropical fruit, strawberry, raspberry, and orange. These gummies contain 25 mg of CBD per gummy, cbdMD also offers 10 mg and 50 mg gummies if you prefer a lower or higher dose.

This brand has an overall positive reputation for selling high quality items. You can check out our full review of the company here. These gummies are also gluten-free and vegan, using pectin instead of gelatin.

Pros

  • The broad-spectrum formula allows you to avoid THC while still getting some benefits from other cannabis compounds
  • It’s made with natural colors, flavors, and sweeteners.
  • There are several potency options.

Cons

  • Some reviews note an aftertaste.
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Best CBD cream for endometriosis

Medterra Relief + Recovery Cream

  • Price: $$
  • CBD type: isolate
  • CBD potency: 250 mg per 1.7-ounce (oz.) container
  • COA: available on product page

This cream is designed for relief from pain. Formulated with menthol and arnica, it provides a cooling effect.

Customers praise the immediate pain relief and quick absorption Medterra provides. They also note it’s free of unpleasant odors and that a little goes a long way.

Pros

  • It’s THC-free.
  • Various potencies are available.
  • It’s enriched with menthol and arnica.

Cons

  • Some find the cooling effect too intense.
  • No full-spectrum option is available.
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CBD ProductsType of CBDForm of CBD
Lazarus Naturals Full-Spectrum CBD Tincturefull-spectrumtincture
PureKana Infused CBD Patchfull-spectrumpatch
cbdMD Tropical CBD Gummiesbroad-spectrumgummies
Medterra Relief + Recovery Creamisolatetopical cream

An important first step is to review the manufacturer’s instructions for use and dosing. However, it can be helpful to keep these guidelines in mind:

  • CBD oils are dropped beneath the tongue. They can also be added to foods and drinks.
  • CBD patches are applied directly to the skin.
  • CBD creams can be applied to the abdomen.

The golden rule of CBD use is to start low and go slow. Appropriate dosing is heavily dependent on your own body weight, body chemistry, product potency, and the condition you’re trying to relieve.

Expect a bit of trial and error as you explore CBD for symptoms of endometriosis, using the manufacturer’s recommendations and our CBD dosing guide as a starting point.

THC is often used to manage pain. In fact, pain is one of the most common uses for medical cannabis.

A 2021 study looked at 252 participants with endometriosis who used cannabis to treat their symptoms. Based on the participant’s self-reported improvement, the study concluded that cannabis seemed to improve pain, gastrointestinal symptoms, and mood.

A 2022 research review looked at 16 studies on using cannabis to manage gynecological pain, including endometriosis pain. The review noted that 61% to 95.5% of the participants found that cannabis reduced pain.

There’s little research on which type of cannabis is best for endometriosis.

However, the above-mentioned 2021 study noted that inhaled cannabis (that is, cannabis that’s smoked or vaped) was the more popular method of using cannabis for endometriosis pain. The authors noted that this could be because smoking or vaping cannabis may cause it to work faster.

It’s not difficult to find CBD products online or in stores these days. But keep in mind that the FDA doesn’t regulate these products, beyond sending warning letters to brands that break the rules. That means you need to shop wisely.

Before using any CBD products, make a point of checking the brand thoroughly.

  • Look for a current and comprehensive COA. You should review the COA to make sure the product contains as much CBD and THC as you’re expecting it to. You can also take a look at contaminant testing results to make sure the product hasn’t been contaminated in the manufacturing process.
  • Consider whether the company is transparent. Review the brand’s website to see whether they’re forthcoming about the source of their hemp and their manufacturing processes.
  • Do a reputation check. Look online to confirm that the brand hasn’t received a letter of warning from the FDA or been involved in any lawsuits.
  • Check customer reviews. Reviews will give you a good idea of what past customers think of a brand’s products.

If you have any questions about a brand’s legitimacy, keep looking.

Also, keep in mind that any CBD products you find on Amazon likely aren’t the real deal. Amazon currently prohibits the sale of these products. Products advertised as CBD are probably hempseed products instead.

CBD has a good safety profile, according to the World Health Organization, but that doesn’t mean there can’t be side effects. Some people could experience:

  • changes in weight or appetite
  • diarrhea
  • fatigue

If you’re currently taking medications to manage symptoms of endometriosis or any other condition, speak with a healthcare professional before trying CBD. CBD may interact with some medications.

CBD isn’t your only option for treating symptoms of endometriosis. There are also medical and surgical options designed to reduce symptoms and address complications.

These include:

If you’re experiencing pelvic pain or painful periods, speak with a healthcare professional. That’s an important first step before trying to self-treat your symptoms at home with CBD or anything else.

If you’re currently using CBD for symptoms of endometriosis, but your symptoms aren’t improving, or if you notice any side effects, talk with a doctor right away.

What about cannabis topicals or CBD creams for endometriosis?

CBD and cannabis topicals are often used to help with pain. You may experience relief if you apply CBD-infused cream to your lower abdomen. There’s limited research that examines how effective cannabis topicals are for endometriosis pain.

What are the traditional treatments for endometriosis?

Endometriosis can be treated with medication that can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Aleve), as well as hormone therapy, such as progestin therapy, aromatase inhibitors, or Gn-RH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone).

These medications can help you manage endometriosis symptoms.

In some cases, you might need surgery to remove endometriosis growths. This is usually done laparoscopically. In some cases, you might need more aggressive surgery, such as the removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and the removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy).

You may find it helpful to use home remedies for endometriosis.

. But it may help alleviate pain for some people. If you’re considering trying CBD for endometriosis, talk with a doctor first.

Is CBD legal? The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC legal at the federal level. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them illegal at the federal level. Some states have legalized CBD, so be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.


Jessica Timmons has been working as a freelance writer since 2007, covering everything from pregnancy and parenting to cannabis, chiropractic, stand-up paddling, fitness, martial arts, home decor, and much more. Her work has appeared in mindbodygreen, Pregnancy & Newborn, Modern Parents Messy Kids, and Coffee + Crumbs. See what she’s up to now at jessicatimmons.com.