This book explores the scientific evidence for the medical use of cannabis in the treatment of common conditions affecting women. Drawing on their experience and knowledge in research and clinical practice, this book by Dr Kylie O’Brien and Dr Carolyn Bosak has been written to assist healthcare professionals to become more informed about the potential role of medicinal cannabis in women’s healthcare, within the context of an integrative approach to treatment. The book sets out the rationale for why medicinal cannabis may be useful in the treatment of anxiety, depression, chronic pelvic pain, primary dysmenorrhea, endometriosis, menopause symptoms, and osteoarthritis. Early chapters explain the important roles of the endocannabinoid system in the functioning of our mind-body and delves into what medicinal cannabis encompasses, including key components, mechanisms of action and safety aspects. The clinical chapters explore each of the above-mentioned conditions, including known pathophysiology and changes in the endocannabinoid system, and examine the current state of scientific research into medicinal cannabis for their treatment. Clinical chapters also include case studies to illustrate how medicinal cannabis may be used in clinical practice. The final chapter provides guidance on how medicinal cannabis may be integrated into a holistic treatment approach as well as commentary on research issues in this field.

Despite the growing interest in the medical use of cannabis by consumers, women in particular, there has been relatively little published in the form of books about the potential use of medicinal cannabis for the treatment of conditions affecting women. This book helps fill that gap. Medicinal Cannabis in Women’s Health: An Evidence-Based Clinician’s Guide will be of great interest to medical practitioners, nurses, pharmacists, and other healthcare practitioners who are prescribing medicinal cannabis, considering prescribing it or simply want to be informed about the evidence base of its use in common conditions facing women.