An increasing number of parents are openly acknowledging their love of cannabis. And many aspiring parents are asking, “Can weed make you infertile?”
The rumor that cannabis affects fertility has persisted for ages, and clinical research has provided some insights on the subject. But there is still a great deal we don’t know about how cannabis affects fertility.
In this article, we discuss the uncertainty around the relationship between male and female infertility, using some of the latest scientific studies and research.
Can Weed Make You Infertile?
Several studies and analyses suggest that cannabis consumption could reduce the chances of having a child. Conflicting studies suggest that cannabis has no notable effect on the chances of becoming pregnant.
So, which studies are correct?
The only general consensus on the subject seems to be that additional research is required. And with the lack of clarity, some recreational consumers are choosing to reduce or eliminate cannabis use out of an abundance of caution. Consumers who use cannabis medicinally, however, should consult with their doctor before changing their dosage or stopping their treatment regimen.
How Can Weed Affect Male Fertility?
Scientists continue to research the connection between male fertility and cannabis use. So far, the results have been too varied to provide a conclusive understanding.
Several studies have indicated that current or past cannabis use could impact male fertility and sperm production. A 2015 analysis of over 1,200 men found lower sperm concentration in 28% of regular cannabis smokers (defined as those who smoke more than once a week). Sperm levels decreased further when subjects combined cannabis with other drug use. At the same time, the study indicated that cannabis consumers had higher testosterone levels than cigarette smokers.1
Other tests have found the opposite results. A 2019 Harvard study noted that male cannabis consumers had higher concentrations of sperm than non-consumers. In 2017, an analysis of North American couples found little connection between male or female conception probability rates when consuming cannabis.2
If that wasn’t unclear enough, other studies have presented mixed results regarding the matter. The issue around stillbirth and neonatal intensive care unit admissions remains unclear.3 Researchers are also examining possible connections between cannabis use and testicle size in primates. However, it is unsure if these results will remain consistent in human trials.
While there isn’t conclusive proof that cannabis is detrimental to fertility, many in the clinical field suggest using caution. Thankfully, this is one area of cannabis research that appears to be receiving adequate (or close to it) levels of clinical attention. While it will take longer to understand the topic, researchers continue exploring the issue. Those looking to start or expand their family may want to consult a physician and exercise caution.
How Can Weed Affect Female Fertility?
Our understanding of female fertility and cannabis use is about as mixed and uncertain as it is for males. Clinical research and analyses have produced various results in both cases, and additional studies are needed before any conclusive statements can be made. But with adverse outcomes appearing in several studies over the years, many hopeful parents are erring on the side of caution and reducing cannabis consumption when trying to become pregnant.
Proponents of reducing or abstaining from cannabis use during family planning periods have several studies to support their claims. A 2007 analysis of rhesus monkeys found an association between cannabis use and a more extended follicular phase, or the time an egg matures in an ovary during a menstrual period.4 More recently, human studies have suggested that cannabis use can impair fertility (2020) or reduce pregnancy chances (2021).
Various studies counter these cautionary results throughout the years.
Two 2018 studies found cannabis use did not lower the chances of getting pregnant. A cohort study of 4,000 Canadian and American men and women saw “little overall association” between cannabis use and conception probability.2 That year, the national survey of family growth was also conducted, analyzing over 1,800 male and female participants from surveys conducted between 2002 and 2015. Their research of respondents aged 15 to 44 concluded that cannabis use did not affect pregnancy chances for women or men.5
But, as researchers have noted in virtually every study, additional research is required to understand the subject better. According to researchers, we remain primarily in the dark on the topic. Some researchers have noted “critical gaps” in research on the effects of cannabis on pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and infants.6
How to Reduce Infertility Risks while Using Cannabis
Progress has been made regarding the connection, or lack thereof, between cannabis use and human fertility. However, we are not at a point where a consensus can be reached.
Select animal studies suggest that cannabis could play a part in hindering human fertility. While it isn’t clear how many of these studies will find similar results in humans, any concerned would-be parents who use cannabis recreationally may want to consider reducing or eliminating cannabis use when trying to conceive.
Many couples use cannabis as part of their intercourse or foreplay and may struggle to reduce or abstain without affecting their sex lives. Products like cannabis-based lubricants are unlikely to impact fertility as they aren’t designed to reach the bloodstream. However, those who smoke, vape, or use edibles as an aphrodisiac or to increase creativity and stimulation during sex may want to consider a short break from cannabis if they are having trouble conceiving.
On the other hand, select studies have indicated that cannabis consumption may benefit efforts to conceive. Medical cannabis patients might not have the option to stop or reduce their dosage in the same way casual adult consumers could. With so many questions left unclear, each person has to decide what is best for them. It is always wise to consult with a physician, but the decision ultimately rests with you.
If you are concerned about the impact cannabis has on your potential family planning, you may want to consider taking a tolerance break.
The most important step you can take is to do the research yourself and speak with a doctor if you have medical questions. Regardless of whether you are planning on continuing your cannabis use or taking a tolerance break, keep in mind that we are only in the infancy (no pun intended) stages of research on cannabis and fertility.
Want to learn more about the effects of cannabis use and fertility? Contact the experts at NuggMD today. We’ll connect you with a qualified physician in your state, just like we've done for over a million Americans!
Resources
- Hehemann MC, Raheem OA, Rajanahally S, et al. Evaluation of the impact of marijuana use on semen quality: a prospective analysis. Therapeutic Advances in Urology. 2021;13. doi:10.1177/17562872211032484 ↩︎
- Wise LA, Wesselink AK, Hatch EE, et al. Marijuana use and fecundability in a North American preconception cohort study. J Epidemiol Community Health. 2018;72(3):208-215. doi:10.1136/jech-2017-209755 ↩︎
- Dubovis M, Muneyyirci-Delale O. Effects of marijuana on human reproduction. Reprod Toxicol. 2020;94:22-30. doi:10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.04.071 ↩︎
- Jukic AM, Weinberg CR, Baird DD, Wilcox AJ. Lifestyle and reproductive factors associated with follicular phase length. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2007;16(9):1340-1347. doi:10.1089/jwh.2007.0354 ↩︎
- Kasman AM, Thoma ME, McLain AC, Eisenberg ML. Association between use of marijuana and time to pregnancy in men and women: findings from the National Survey of Family Growth. Fertil Steril. 2018;109(5):866-871. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.01.015 ↩︎
- Corsi DJ, Murphy MSQ, Cook J. The Effects of Cannabis on Female Reproductive Health Across the Life Course. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2021;6(4):275-287. doi:10.1089/can.2020.0065 ↩︎
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
