| In 2017, the Centre of Excellence for Women’s Health developed 4 info sheets on alcohol, cannabis, nicotine and tobacco, and prescription opioids to support service providers to have informed conversations with women about the health effects. They have updated them this year to reflect the most recent research and practice wisdom. Each sheet includes: * General information about the substance; * Health information that considers sex and gender factors relevant to women; * and,The latest research related to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting. |
| Women & Alcohol The updates to this sheet incorporate key points from Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health, to think through the continuum of risk associated with alcohol consumption and how to reduce harms. Available in English or French. |
| Women & Cannabis The updates to this info sheet include key findings from a three-year study led by the Centre of Excellence for Women’s Health on sex, gender, and cannabis. The info sheet includes information to contextualize why women may be using cannabis, such as for pain management, relief from pregnancy related symptoms and discomfort, and as an alternative to pharmaceuticals. While the latest research on cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is presented, we also recognize that more research is needed. Find the info sheet here. |
| Women, Nicotine & Tobacco The updates to this sheet include the addition of nicotine use and vaping, and information on supporting women through withdrawal and cessation. Find the info sheet here. |
| Women & Prescription Opioids The updates from this sheet include information on the impact of prescription opioids on women’s health, including hormonal changes and other effects, in addition to risks of addiction. Additionally, there is updated research on Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome, pregnancy, breastfeeding and parenting. Find the info sheet here. |
| Women, Chronic Pain & Prescription Opioids As part of a recently concluded project centred on women’s chronic pain and prescription opioid use, we developed this info sheet with a special focus on chronic pain. It describes why women may use prescription opioids for chronic pain, highlights women’s experiences of benefits and harms, and provides some guidance on comprehensive pain management. Available in English or French. Key Facts About Women and Tobacco We created this fact sheet in collaboration with the International Network of Women Against Tobacco, a global network established in 1990 to raise awareness and create action to reduce the impact of tobacco on women and girls. The fact sheet outlines information on global prevalence of women’s tobacco and nicotine use, health effects, cessation, and more. Available in English or Spanish. |