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Of women with endometriosis reported using cannabis for symptom self-management in a national survey. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada
Cannabis was among the highest-rated self-management strategies for pain in an endometriosis survey. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
Women of reproductive age in the UK are affected by endometriosis. Endometriosis UK
Women in the UK are estimated to be living with endometriosis, a similar number to those with diabetes. Endometriosis UK
Could treatment be suitable?
A specialist may assess you if:
- You have a diagnosed condition or an established clinical history.
- Standard treatments have not helped enough or were unsuitable.
- You are 18 or over and live in the UK.
- Your records allow a doctor to review previous care and current medicines.
Understanding the condition
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a long-term condition where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb grow in other parts of the body, such as the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
It can cause severe pain, heavy periods, extreme tiredness and difficulty getting pregnant. Symptoms vary from person to person and can have a significant impact on relationships, work and mental health.
Recognising the impact
Common endometriosis symptoms
The severity of symptoms does not always reflect the extent of the condition, and they often build around the menstrual cycle.
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Painful periods that interfere with daily life
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain during or after sex
- Extreme tiredness and fatigue
- Difficulty getting pregnant
When to seek medical advice New, severe or changing pelvic pain, very heavy bleeding, or pain with fever should be assessed by a doctor rather than managed through an online eligibility form. Persistent symptoms always deserve proper investigation. Contact NHS 111, your GP or emergency services as appropriate.
Conventional treatments
Conventional treatment options
Endometriosis care combines pain relief, hormone treatment and, in some cases, surgery. Recognised options include:
- Pain relief such as ibuprofen, naproxen or paracetamol
- Hormone medicines such as the combined pill or a contraceptive implant
- Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) medicines in some cases
- Surgery to remove endometriosis tissue
- Hysterectomy only where clinically appropriate
Although these options help many people, they are not enough for everyone. If endometriosis symptoms still affect daily life, a specialist assessment can help you understand whether another route may be suitable.
Specialist-led care
How may medical cannabis support endometriosis pain?
Medical cannabis does not treat endometriosis lesions or its progression. Where pelvic pain and its impact on sleep and quality of life persist despite recognised care, a specialist may review symptom support.
Research into medical cannabis and endometriosis is still ongoing. Cannabis-based medicines may contain THC and/or CBD, two compounds that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is involved in pain signalling, mood and sleep.
For adults whose endometriosis symptoms still affect relationships, work or quality of life after conventional options, a doctor on the GMC Specialist Register can review whether a prescription may be suitable.
Where endometriosis symptoms continue to affect daily life, a doctor on the GMC Specialist Register reviews your diagnosis, the treatments already tried and your goals to consider whether a prescription may be appropriate for you. Effects can vary, so specialist guidance is key.
Effects can vary from person to person, which is why a GMC-registered specialist reviews your symptoms, goals, medicines and records before deciding whether treatment may be appropriate.
1
Eligibility screening
Tell us about your diagnosis, symptoms and treatments already tried. No GP referral is needed.
2
Specialist consultation
A GMC-registered specialist reviews your records, goals, current medicines and relevant risks by online video.
3
Decision and follow-up
When treatment is appropriate, outcomes and side effects are monitored and the plan is reviewed.
Evidence
What does the evidence say?
Developing evidence (pain and quality of life)
Evidence relates to pain and quality-of-life symptoms rather than treating endometriosis itself, so recognised medical and surgical care continues.
- Pain relief, hormone treatment and surgery remain recognised care.
- Evidence relates to symptoms, not treating the underlying disease.
- Gynaecology care continues alongside any assessment.
Related support
Explore related endometriosis support
These pages may help if symptoms overlap or you want to understand the wider specialist assessment pathway.
Safety
Possible side effects
Medical cannabis is prescribed under specialist supervision, and patient experience can vary. Your clinician will explain what to watch for and adjust your plan if needed.
- Decreased appetite or feeling sick
- Diarrhoea or weakness
- Dizziness or feeling very tired
- Behavioural or mood changes
They’ll usually ease on their own, but speak to your clinician if they don’t improve over time.
Questions
Endometriosis FAQs
Clear answers on eligibility, suitability and legal prescribing in the UK.
Can medical cannabis treat endometriosis?
For some people, medical cannabis may help manage endometriosis symptoms when other treatments have not provided enough relief. A specialist assesses your individual situation to decide whether a prescription is clinically appropriate, as effects can vary from person to person.
Is cannabis legal in the UK?
Prescription cannabis-based products for medicinal use have had a legal prescribing route in the UK since 1 November 2018. Recreational cannabis remains illegal, and a legal medicine must be prescribed for you and used exactly as directed.
Is an online assessment as reliable as in person?
Yes. Our structured video assessments follow the same recognised diagnostic standards used in face-to-face appointments, with the added convenience of being seen from home.
Do I need a GP referral?
No GP referral is needed to start an eligibility check. Sharing your medical records helps the specialist review your history and current medicines, and we can keep your GP informed if you wish.
Find out whether a specialist assessment may be suitable
Complete a short eligibility check. A prescribing decision can only be made after a full clinical assessment by a GMC-registered specialist.