Discover the Latest: State Health Department Expands Medical Cannabis Eligibility with Four New Conditions!

Good news for many women in Illinois! Medical cannabis can now help treat endometriosis, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, and female orgasmic disorder. This change comes from the Illinois Department of Public Health, marking the first update to the list of treatable conditions since 2019, bringing the total to 56.

To add these new conditions, the Medical Cannabis Advisory Board and health department staff carefully reviewed evidence. Dr. Sameer Vohra, the director of the health department, gives the final approval. He highlighted the potential of medical cannabis to provide relief for various tough medical issues.

Doctors can now prescribe medical cannabis immediately for these newly approved conditions. Studies show that cannabis may help manage chronic pain linked to endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids.

Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus starts to grow outside of it, causing significant pain and even infertility. This condition affects about 10% of women worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.

Ovarian cysts are another concern; these can be solid or fluid-filled growths on the ovaries that lead to severe discomfort. Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous tumors in the uterus that can also cause chronic pelvic pain.

Female orgasmic disorder refers to difficulties some women face in achieving orgasm. This condition can be frustrating and affect emotional well-being. Experts suggest that cannabis may help women experiencing this issue as well.

These four conditions are now part of a larger list of ailments eligible for cannabis treatment in Illinois. Other conditions include autism, Alzheimer’s agitation, migraines, Parkinson’s disease, and serious spinal cord or brain injuries.