Imagine living with constant pain from an incurable condition that doctors struggle to treat. Millions of women worldwide face this reality with endometriosis, and many are now using cannabis for relief. But unregulated products bring risks. Enter Melissa Sturgess, CEO of Ananda Pharma, who’s pushing for science-backed solutions. What could this mean for women’s health?
Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, according to the World Health Organization. That’s roughly 190 million women globally dealing with severe pain, infertility, and fatigue. Traditional treatments like painkillers or surgery often fall short, leaving many desperate for better options.
Women report that cannabis helps ease symptoms like chronic pelvic pain and cramps. A 2023 study in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada found that over 60% of surveyed women with endometriosis used cannabis for pain management, with many noting reduced reliance on opioids.
This trend shows a growing gap in medical care. Doctors admit current therapies don’t always work well, pushing patients toward self-medication.
In places like the UK and US, access to medical cannabis varies, but stories from users highlight real benefits mixed with frustrations over inconsistent product quality.
Melissa Sturgess Leads the Charge
Melissa Sturgess, with her background in business and science, saw potential in cannabis after visiting research sites in Israel back in 2017. She founded Ananda Pharma to develop regulated, pharmaceutical-grade CBD products.
As CEO, Sturgess aims to create the first approved CBD treatment for endometriosis. Her company recently published a white paper on CBD’s pain relief potential, drawing from clinical data.
Sturgess told reporters that unregulated cannabis leaves women vulnerable. “We need evidence-based medicine,” she said. Ananda Pharma is running trials to prove CBD’s safety and effectiveness.
Her experience includes leading roles in stock exchange companies, giving her the skills to navigate complex regulations.
This push comes at a time when women’s health issues are gaining more attention. Biotech firms like hers could bridge the gap between folk remedies and proven drugs.
Cannabis Research Gains Momentum
Recent studies back up what many women already know. A 2024 report from Releaf UK showed that medical cannabis helped fibromyalgia patients, a similar chronic pain condition, with over 70% rating it highly effective for symptoms.
For endometriosis, early trials suggest CBD reduces inflammation and pain without the high from THC.
Ananda Pharma’s work focuses on pure CBD formulations. They plan to seek approval from regulators like the FDA and EMA.
Here’s how cannabis might help, based on current research:
- Reduces inflammation in affected tissues
- Eases nerve pain signals
- Improves sleep disrupted by chronic discomfort
- Lowers anxiety tied to ongoing illness
But experts warn more large-scale studies are needed. A 2025 survey by the Cannabis Industry Council found gaps in research for women’s specific conditions.
Sturgess co-chairs the council’s research group, advocating for better funding and policies.
This momentum could lead to new treatments within years, changing lives for millions.
Challenges and Future Hopes
Not everything is smooth. Unregulated products can vary in strength and purity, leading to side effects or no relief at all. Legal hurdles slow progress in many countries.
In the US, cannabis remains federally illegal, though states allow medical use for conditions like chronic pain. The UK legalized medical cannabis in 2018, but prescriptions are rare.
Sturgess pushes for change through events and policy work. She spoke at Cannabis Europa in 2025, sharing her vision.
Despite obstacles, positive stories emerge. One woman shared how cannabis shrank her tumor and managed symptoms better than pills, according to patient advocacy groups.
| Condition | Women Affected Globally | Common Treatments | Cannabis Use Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Endometriosis | 190 million | Painkillers, surgery | Over 60% in surveys |
| Fibromyalgia | 4-6% of population | Antidepressants, therapy | 70% report high effectiveness |
This table highlights the scale and the shift toward alternatives.
Advocates hope biotech efforts will make safe options widely available.
Women dealing with incurable conditions like endometriosis deserve better than trial-and-error relief. Melissa Sturgess and Ananda Pharma are working to provide just that, turning personal struggles into scientific progress. Their push for regulated cannabis medicine could transform treatment, offering hope where little existed before.