Menstrual Changes and Reversal of Amenorrhea Induced by Classic Psychedelics: A Case Series

Summary

Anecdotal reports from three women aged 27 to 34 suggest that classic psychedelics may affect menstrual function, including resumption of menses after amenorrhea, early onset of menses when used in the mid to late luteal period, and improved menstrual regularity in a woman later diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The mechanisms are unclear but may involve 5-HT2A receptor effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. These effects have been overlooked in research and may have therapeutic potential.

Study at a glance

Abstract

ABSTRACT There has been little research on the effects of psychedelics on menstrual and reproductive function, though anecdotal evidence suggests that these compounds may have striking effects on menstrual function in at least a subset of users. Social media and word of mouth were used to seek out individuals who had a history of changes in menstrual function following psychedelic use. Case histories were elicited from three respondents following informed consent. A literature search on the effects of classic psychedelics and related compounds was completed. Three women ranging from 27 to 34 years of age were interviewed and reported three distinct phenomena following the use of classic psychedelics: 1) resumption of menses following amenorrhea, 2) early onset of menses, in particular when psychedelics were used in the mid to late luteal period, and 3) improved menstrual regularity in a woman with irregular cycles who was eventually diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The mechanisms behind these effects remain unclear, though they may be mediated via direct or indirect effects of 5-HT2A agonism on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Although phenomena related to menstrual and reproductive function have been largely overlooked in the psychedelic literature to date, these effects may have therapeutic utility and warrant further study.

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