Are you one of the nine in ten women who experience period cramps, or one of the five in ten women suffering with dysmenorrhea – the medical term for painful periods? You’re not alone! Lots of us are reaching for Google to ask, “how to relieve period cramps”.  

We may have turned to hot water bottles, chocolate, a heating pad, or even pain-relieving medication in the past, but there’s a new period cramp remedy on the block: CBD tampons. So, what are CBD tampons and can they really help with menstrual cramps? 

What are CBD tampons? 

CBD tampons are specially designed tampons that are infused with CBD. The tampons allow a small amount of the cannabinoid (CBD) compound to be absorbed through the vaginal mucosa. They don’t look any different to your average tampon, but they do contain an extra ingredient – CBD. 

CBD is a chemical found in the cannabis sativa plant, also known as cannabis or hemp. (In case you were wondering, CBD can't get you high as it doesn’t contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) – another cannabinoid that has psychoactive properties.) Up to now, you may well have heard about the numerous CBD benefits and using CBD oil as a natural remedy for pain relief, but how can they help painful periods? 

Do CBD tampons work? 

Since CBD tampons are infused with CBD, the idea is that the CBD is absorbed into your system to relieve painful period cramps. With powerful anti-inflammatory properties, CBD has become increasingly popular as a natural pain relief remedy for all sorts of things. Many people use CBD oil and CBD supplements to relieve muscle, joint, and bone pain, calm and reduce swelling, and reduce stress and anxiety. 

While there aren’t many studies to prove that CBD tampons definitely reduce menstrual cramps, many experts agree that in theory, they could, since CBD’s anti-inflammatory benefits have been proven. 

CBD-infused tampons are not tampons that you can personally infuse with CBD and insert in your vagina. This could be very dangerous, so you should only buy from a trusted brand who have specifically created CBD tampons. It’s also worth mentioning that not all CBD products are safe to insert into your vagina. 

Do CBD tampons really reduce period cramps? 

Many women who have used CBD tampons praise them for their ability to reduce painful period cramps. Some data points to CBD tampons at being 35% more effective in reducing pain, compared to those using a placebo after 30 minutes of insertion. 

Since you are inserting them into your vagina, you’re enabling the CBD to get close to the uterus (which is where we would want the pain-relieving magic to happen to reduce painful cramps). 

While there are currently no published research studies that prove the effectiveness of CBD for menstrual pain relief, it’s thought that CBD can alleviate the pain that’s created as a result of the uterus shedding its lining. 

Are CBD tampons safe? 

According to gynaecologists, there aren’t any studies to suggest that CBD tampons aren’t safe. 

Look out for the FDA-approval badge when buying yours. (The FDA regulates tampons as medical devices.) 

Inserting anything into your vagina can cause irritation and possible infection and discomfort, so it’s worth being aware of any symptoms that arise during or after inserting a tampon. 

Just like with any other tampon, they should be changed regularly (as outlined by the individual tampon instructions). The FDA recommends that tampons be changed every 4-6 hours, and never stay inserted for more than 8 hours. 

In rare instances, inserting any tampon (not just CBD tampons) can cause Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). 

Will CBD tampons affect me driving, using heavy machinery or show up on a drugs test? 

As confirmed with several studies of CBD tampons, including one by the World Health Organisation, it’s safe to drive, use heavy machine, and take a routine drugs test during and after using CBD tampons. CBD is legal. 

Can CBD affect your period? 

Thankfully, CBD is thought to be free of negative side effects. 

Are CBD tampons right for you? 

CBD tampons could make the perfect all-natural, safe pain relief remedy for your painful period cramps, since they’re safe. If eco-friendly and sustainable practices are important to you, do some research into different brands to find a product that’s right for you. Organic ingredients also mean you’re less likely to consume pesticides or other chemicals. 

Since there aren’t enough substantial research, it’s not recommended for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive to use CBD of any kind. 

Although it’s unlikely that CBD would reach your liver and cause any side effects with other medications, always consult your doctor before starting something new.