Not only is being labeled a cannabis user in general becoming less taboo, but we're also seeing more women partake in the herb than ever. Besides this uptick in cannabis use, women are also causing huge changes in the industry as business leaders. Though we all have our own unique reasons behind our marijuana use, studies are showing that there are some fascinating side effects that women in particular should take note of.

In this article we’ll discuss just how the effects of marijuana positively impact women’s health. We will also touch on it’s potentially negative side effects, how it can impact your mental health, and most importantly what you should know about smoking weed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What are some of the reasons why women should choose to smoke marijuana?

1. Manage Anxiety and Depression

From the time women hit puberty until they are in their 50’s, they are twice as likely to have an anxiety disorder as men. Reaseach show that cannabis is an excellent combatant against anxiety, though of course, it depends on the individual’s reaction to the plant and the amount used. Smoking pot has famously been known to reduce feelings of stress, tension and anxiety, making it a great option for anyone combatting these symptoms.

2. Join an Evolving Industry

As more women continue to challenge traditional conceptions around gender in the workplace, it's important to consider joining an industry that is soon to explode around the world. Granted, cannabis isn’t a new business or product, but the changing legal status of this plant may mean more women, like yourself, will be inclined to get involved. From the making edibles and other cannabis products to running dispensaries and grow rooms, the options are endless.

3. Promote Good Health

Though we all love a glass of wine at the end of a long day, excessive drinking can lead to liver disease, heart problems and many other health issues. Marijuana's effects, on the other hand, are much more minimal, especially if you choose a vape as your method of consumption, making it a healthier way to unwind. Along with this, cannabis can also be used to encourage a healthy lifestyle. Cannabrand, a Colorado-based marketing company, has started the “I Choose Cannabis” campaign that looks to combine yoga and marijuana, aimed at a new generation of "spiritual seekers."

4. Invigorate Your Sex Life

Studies are all over the map when it comes to the links between sex and cannabis; many have attempted to study the effects of cannabis in the bedroom with extremely mixed results. This is likely because individuals have diverse reactions to the plant, but anecdotally the consensus is that marijuana can have a positive effect on your love life. Because of its relaxing effects, cannabis may lead to an increase in desire, sensual touch, closeness to your partner and an overall increase in sexual pleasure and satisfaction. Plus, you should probably try Foria, a cannabis infused sensual oil.

5. Take Care of Your Skin

Cannabis has positive mental effects, but did you know that it also does wonders for your skin? Clinical research shows that cannabinoids have anti-aging and antioxidant properties and also rejuvenate dry skin. Because of this, hemp seed oil is used in many beauty products and shampoos and its low THC levels make it legal for sale. The Body Shop famously carries a full range of cannabis beauty products showing that even traditional industries have embraced this awesome plant. There is also a California based company by the name of Papa & Barkley that makes a wide variety of balms and creams that contain both CBD and THC.

6. Alleviate PMS Symptoms

In the 1800’s, cannabis was commonly used to help alleviate menstrual cramps but was never studied seriously at the time. According to Women’s Health, around 85% of women experience cramps, headaches or backaches during their periods and often take medication in an attempt to alleviate those pains. Cannabis use maybe be a natural solution, as it has been shown to provide instant relief of these ailments and won’t require a trip to the pharmacy.

7. Manage Weight

A recent study shows THC has properties that are proven to increase your metabolism and boost your overall energy. Granted, we understand that cannabis has long been known for giving users the munchies, but that doesn't mean you have to eat a whole bag of Cheetos. In fact, Bethenny Frankel, the innovator behind Skinny Girl Wine, is now stepping into the cannabis market with her new line of Skinny Girl Cannabis. This strain will alter the structure of the plant to reduce the feelings of the munchies while increasing your metabolism.

As the cannabis industry grows into a legal and regulated industry, many women may find it enticing to join this exciting business and try the products for the first time. These are just some of the reasons women should consider smoking cannabis, so for your next ladies night, leave the wine in the fridge and break out the bud!

What are the health risks associated with smoking marijuana and how can they be avoided?

General Health Risks

Heavy use is defined as daily or near daily marijuana use. Research has shown that long-term and/or heavy use of marijuana can carry potential risks such as:

Brain and mental health effects:

• Heavy use of marijuana can damage your memory. This damage can last a week or more after the last time you used.

• Marijuana, especially in high doses, can cause people who are high to not know what is real, have hallucinations and paranoia. This is called temporary psychosis.

• Heavy use of marijuana may lead to development of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia.

Respiratory effects:

• Marijuana like cigarette smoking smoke irritates the lungs.

• People who smoke marijuana daily or near-daily may have a daily cough, bronchitis, mucus and wheezing.

• Both firsthand and secondhand smoke contain the same cancer-causing chemicals as tobacco smoke.

Cancer:

• There is conflicting research about smoking marijuana and lung cancer.

• The cancer-causing chemicals in tobacco smoke are also in marijuana smoke.

• People who smoke marijuana daily or near-daily may have tissue damage in the airways of their lungs. More research is needed to determine if this tissue damage increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer.

• Adults who use marijuana may be at a higher risk of certain types of testicular cancer. 

Other Health Effects:

• Some people who use marijuana heavily can start vomiting without being able to stop; this is called Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. This can be reversed by stopping marijuana use.

• Using marijuana may increase the risk of stroke in adults who are younger than 55.

If You Are Pregnant

Researchers mostly study the effects of weed use during pregnancy on animals. Health Care experts say exposure to THC can affect a baby’s prenatal development and overall brain development during fertilization. Babies born to mothers who engage in prenatal cannabis use don’t have serious signs of withdrawal. However, other changes may be noted such as lower birth weight and potential preterm birth.

Research is ongoing, but a baby whose mother used weed during pregnancy may have problems as they get older. The research isn’t clear: Some older research reports no long-term developmental differences, but newer research is showing some problems for these children. Though there isn’t much data, pregnant women should try their hardest to abstain from cannabis during this period for their child’s sake.

THC is considered a developmental neurotoxin by some. A child whose mother used weed during pregnancy may have trouble with memory, attention, controlling impulses, and school performance. More research is certainly needed, so you might want to re-think using cannabis to ease your morning sickness symptoms.

Your ob-gyn may ask about your use of substances, including alcohol, cigarettes, marijuana, illegal drug use, and prescription drugs used for a nonmedical reason. Doctors ask about these substances to learn if you have any behaviors that could harm you or your fetus. If you are having trouble with substance use, your ob-gyn can offer advice or resources to help you quit. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists believes women who have a drug abuse problem should receive medical care and counseling services to help them quit.

Finally, even though little is known about the effects of marijuana on breastfed babies. Because it is not clear how a baby may be affected through breast milk by a woman’s marijuana use, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that women who are breastfeeding not use cannabis or even prescribed medical marijuana.

Conclusion

There are many reasons for women in places where the legalization of cannabis has occurred to try it if they are curious. With that in mind it’s always best to smoke pot or eat edibles with an an experienced friend or get guidance from those at your local dispensary before you first experience. Who knows, maybe your newfound use of cannabis find a better way to enjoy your free time than drinking alcohol.

With that being said, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding it’s best to explore these avenues once you’ve finished doing so, as the research shows it may negatively impact your child’s health.