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Cannabinoid Therapy in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery: Current Evidence and Future Directions

  • Reconstructed Bladder Function & Dysfunction (M Kaufman, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

In this review, we examine the current literature regarding the use of cannabinoids in several areas of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery (FPMRS) including overactive bladder, interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, and chronic pelvic pain.

Recent Findings

Animal models support the role of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of these disorders and several drug targets have been identified. However, clinical studies remain limited. Palmitoylethanolamine (PEA) is emerging as a possible therapy for pain in this context.

Summary

There is currently insufficient evidence to support cannabinoid therapy in disorders related to FPMRS and many of the clinical studies to date have limitations in terms of size and study design.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Urogynaecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

    Jocelyn Stairs

  2. Faculty of Computer Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

    Finlay Maguire

  3. Department of Anesthesia, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

    Christian Lehmann

  4. Department of Urology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

    Ashley Cox

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  1. Jocelyn Stairs
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  2. Finlay Maguire
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  3. Christian Lehmann
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  4. Ashley Cox
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Correspondence to Ashley Cox.

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This article is part of the Topical Collection on Reconstructed Bladder Function & Dysfunction

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Stairs, J., Maguire, F., Lehmann, C. et al. Cannabinoid Therapy in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery: Current Evidence and Future Directions. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep 16, 64–73 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-021-00632-5

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