Medical Cannabis & Endometriosis

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus implants abnormally outside of the uterus in the pelvic cavity, and in some cases, other locations in the body, to form lesions, cysts, nodules and other growths.

These growths can be found on every pelvic organ and surface including ligaments, bladder, ovaries, tubes, uterus, ureters, bowel, and other peritoneal surfaces. More rarely, endometriosis has been found in the lungs, diaphragm, nasal cavity, and other locations throughout the body. For each patient with endometriosis, the specific locations of the endometriosis lesions are different, giving rise to a disease that can present uniquely in different patients.

– Internal scarring
– Formation of adhesions (bands of scar tissue that can connect organs inappropriately)
– Severe cramping
– Painful bowel movements or urination
– Painful periods
– Chronic pain around the back, abdomen and pelvis
– Diarrhea or constipation
– Nausea
– Infertility
– Fatigue
– Painful intercourse
– Depression

In addition, patients coping with symptoms without a diagnosis can sometimes face dismissal of their symptoms from friends, family, and even medical professionals. This can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression.

The cause of endometriosis is unknown. 

Some theories include:
– The body’s inability to breakdown back-flow menstruation
– Congenital origins
– Metaplasia
– Circulatory or lymphatic distribution of endometriosis lesions
– Or a combination of more than one of the previous causes

Although heredity plays a role in the development of endometriosis, it can affect any individual of any race from puberty to post-menopause.

On average, it takes seven to nine years of discussing symptoms and advocating medical professionals for an individual to receive a diagnosis of endometriosis. Therefore, earlier diagnosis and treatment can help mitigate years of unnecessary suffering. Sometimes endometriosis can be seen with an ultrasound or MRI, but many times these tests are negative even when endometriosis is present.

While there is no known cure for endometriosis, there are many different treatment options to consider, including the standard of excision surgery for treating the endometriosis itself, as well as various approaches to find relief from related symptoms. Many patients find better relief from combining medical and/or surgical treatment with natural approaches.

Medications: 

– NSAIDs (Ibuprophen, naproxen)
– Birth control pills
– Progestin therapy (Visanne)
– GnRH agonist (Lupron)
– GnRH antagonist (Orilissa)

Surgery: 

– Laparoscopy
– Excision surgery
– Ablation surgery

Apollo Cannabis Clinic is an evidence-based clinic that has been conducting observational research on medical cannabis and conditions since 2014.

We offer free appointments to all Canadians, 7 days a week. Our healthcare professionals and patient educators are here to support you along your journey, from booking your first appointment to setting you up with a dosing schedule and helping select your products (medication). 

To book your free appointment, you can fill out a form here, or give us a call at 1-877-560-9195. If you have any questions, you can email us at Booking@apolloresearch.ca.