Cannabis has long been known for its relaxing and pleasurable effects. For many cannabis consumers, this extends to their sex lives.
In fact, a growing number of people report that using marijuana before or during sex can enhance their sexual experiences, leading to more intense and satisfying orgasms, increased intimacy, and a greater overall sense of pleasure.
What does the science say about these reports?
We drill deep into the latest research on cannabis and sexual pleasure, including how it affects both male and female orgasms, the potential risks and side effects of cannabis use during sex, and tips for using weed to enhance your sexual experiences.
How Do Orgasms Happen?
The orgasm, the ultimate climax of pleasure during sexual activity, is a complex phenomenon involving a series of chemical and physical processes in the body.
For men and women, the sexual response cycle begins with arousal. This can be triggered by physical or mental stimulation. From there, arousal increases blood flow to the genitals, causing them to swell and become more sensitive.
In men, sexual stimulation triggers the release of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and oxytocin, in the brain, which help bring about an orgasm.1
In women, sexual stimulation triggers the release of the hormone oxytocin, which causes muscle contractions that lead to intense pleasure and sometimes orgasm.2
The clitoris, which contains over 8,000 nerve endings, can be a primary source of sexual pleasure for women and plays a vital role in orgasms.
When an orgasm occurs, the brain releases a flood of feel-good neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins. This chemical cascade leads to experiences of intense pleasure and relaxation, which can also have other positive effects on the body, such as reducing stress and improving mood.
While the physical and chemical processes that lead to orgasm are similar in both men and women, the timing and intensity of orgasms can vary widely from person to person. Factors such as age, physical health, and emotional state can all affect a person’s ability to experience orgasm.
The sexual response cycle is a complex physiological process, and cannabis may affect it through the endocannabinoid system and enhance the experience of orgasm.
Understanding the science behind orgasms is the first step in unlocking the secrets of sexual pleasure, with or without weed.
How Can Weed Affect Orgasms?
Cannabis has gained a reputation for enhancing sexual pleasure for some people. This is primarily because of the active compounds in cannabis, such as THC and CBD, which positively interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system.
THC, the intoxicating compound in cannabis, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and other parts of the body. This can lead to a range of effects, including altered perception, relaxation, and feelings of euphoria.
Some individuals have reported that using cannabis can lead to more intense and pleasurable orgasms during sex. People sometimes refer to this unsurprisingly as a “weed orgasm,” “marijuana orgasm,” or even “weedgasm,” for short.
The potential reasons for this effect are not yet fully understood. However, a 2019 research survey found that using cannabis before sex “helped them relax, heightened their sensitivity to touch, and increased intensity of feelings, thus enhancing their sexual experience.”3
So how does weed have this effect on sex?
THC may affect the release of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which are involved in the experience of pleasure and mood.4
CBD, another compound found in cannabis, may also have potential benefits for sexual pleasure. While it does not have the intoxicating effects of THC, researchers have shown CBD to have anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help to reduce stress and promote relaxation during sexual activity.5 This, of course, makes it significantly easier to achieve orgasm, especially for women.6
However, it’s important to note that the effects of cannabis on sexual pleasure can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may find that cannabis enhances their sexual experiences. Others may not notice any difference or may even have a negative reaction.
How Can Weed Affect Female Orgasms?
Achieving orgasm during sexual activity can be difficult for many women.
Some studies suggest up to 30% of women have difficulty reaching climax. A variety of reasons may be to blame, including physical factors such as hormonal imbalances or medication side effects, as well as psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, or relationship issues.7
However, recent research has suggested that there is a positive effect of marijuana on female orgasms. In other words, cannabis may be a potential solution for women who frequently struggle to achieve this ultimate sexual finish.8
In this study, published in the journal Sexual Medicine, researchers found that women who used cannabis before sex reported more intense and satisfying orgasms versus women who did not. Not only that, researchers saw no difference based on how the cannabis was consumed. So, whether you prefer eating edibles, taking dabs, or smoking joints, you’re in luck! They all do just fine.
Other studies have shown similar results. One study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research found that using cannabis increased sexual pleasure and even increased the likelihood of women achieving multiple orgasms.9
While these findings are certainly intriguing, especially for those with recurrent sexual health problems, it’s essential to note that using cannabis before sex comes with some potential risks. Some women may experience adverse side effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or anxiety, which might impact sexual pleasure.
Using cannabis before sex may also impair judgment and decision-making, which might lead to risky sexual behavior. As with any substance, it’s essential to use cannabis responsibly while staying informed of the potential risks and benefits.
How Can Weed Affect Male Orgasms?
The potential effects of cannabis on male sexual pleasure have also been the subject of recent research. While there is still much to learn about the specific ways cannabis may interact with the male sexual response cycle, some studies suggest that cannabis may have several beneficial effects on male orgasms.10
For example, one study published in the journal Culture, Health, Sexuality found that using cannabis before sex both reduced feelings of anxiety and helped men experience greater feelings of intimacy with their sexual partners.11 Needless to say, the greater the intimacy, the greater the orgasm.
Another study found that cannabis use was associated with greater sexual frequency and increased sexual satisfaction.12
Nevertheless, as is the case for women, there can be some risks with cannabis use for sex. Perhaps the most notable is the increased difficulty in achieving an erection.
While the studies mentioned previously show a positive effect on sexual satisfaction for both men and women, there can be too much of a good thing. For men, one of the biggest risks is consuming too much cannabis.
Getting too high too quickly can produce various adverse effects, such as anxiety, cotton mouth, fatigue, headaches, and more. Of course, these negative effects may make it difficult to get in the mood and “get it up.”
Some studies have even found that the prevalence of erectile dysfunction was higher in men who regularly consume cannabis.13
It’s also worth noting that some studies have found that cannabis use has been associated with a range of potential long-term side effects, including decreased sperm count and impaired fertility. Further research is needed to verify these claims and understand the reason they may occur.
How to Achieve Better Orgasms Using Weed
Consumption Method
If you’re interested in using cannabis to spice things up in the bedroom, there are a few tips and techniques that you may find helpful.
First, consider the method of cannabis consumption that is best for you. While smoking or vaping cannabis is a popular method, some people may prefer edibles or cannabis-infused lubricants for a more targeted and localized effect.
Remember, the consumption method does not influence the outcome of your cannabis orgasms. Whether you choose to smoke, vape, dab, etc., the sexual enhancement will still be there.
It’s also worth noting that different strains of cannabis may have differing effects on sexual pleasure, so it may be helpful to experiment with different strains to find the one that works best for you.
Dose Properly
Perhaps the most significant aspect of using cannabis to enhance your sexual pleasure is dosing properly. While many studies have suggested that marijuana use can work wonders in the bedroom, too high a dose can have the exact opposite effect.
It’s crucial to find the right balance for your body and needs. Some people may find that microdosing with cannabis before sex is effective. Others may prefer a larger dose for more intense effects.
The tried-and-true advice remains the same; start low and go slow. If the effects of your starting dose leave you wanting, gradually increase until you find the right amount for you.
The timing of your dose also plays a big role. Depending on the consumption method, it may take some time for the effects of cannabis to kick in (edibles are notorious in this regard, for example), so it’s crucial to plan ahead and allow enough time for the cannabis to take effect before engaging in sexual activity.
So, let’s suppose you plan to smoke or vape cannabis before having sex. In this case, it may be best to do so about 30 minutes before you and your partner get hot and heavy.
Weed and Orgasms FAQ
Does weed provide more intense or multiple orgasms?
Some studies suggest that cannabis use can lead to more intense and longer-lasting orgasms in both men and women, as well as the possibility of multiple orgasms.
What are the risks for men?
Potential risks associated with cannabis use for men include decreased libido, difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection, and a decrease in sperm count.
What are the risks for women?
Risks associated with cannabis use for women include decreased libido, difficulty in achieving orgasm, and potential negative effects on fertility.
Can I overdose on THC?
While it is possible to consume too much THC and experience negative side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, and dizziness, it is generally not considered fatal.
What do I do if I feel too high?
If you feel too high, it’s important to stay calm and remind yourself that the effects will wear off in time. You can try to distract yourself with an activity such as watching TV or listening to music. If you’ve consumed too high of a dose, stay hydrated and get plenty of rest.
What about CBD? Can it enhance orgasms?
While there is less research on the effects of CBD on sexual pleasure and orgasms, some studies suggest that it may have potential therapeutic benefits for sexual dysfunction and other related issues. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of CBD use for sexual pleasure.
Sources:
1. Argiolas A, Melis MR. The neurophysiology of the sexual cycle. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation. 2003;26(3 Suppl):20-22. Accessed March 13, 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12834016/
2. Wallen K, Lloyd EA. Female sexual arousal: Genital anatomy and orgasm in intercourse. Hormones and Behavior. 2011;59(5):780-792. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.12.004
3. Wiebe E, Just A. How Cannabis Alters Sexual Experience: A Survey of Men and Women. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2019;16(11):1758-1762. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.07.023
4. Owolabi JO, Olatunji SY, Olanrewaju AJ. Caffeine and Cannabis Effects on Vital Neurotransmitters and Enzymes in the Brain Tissue of Juvenile Experimental Rats. Annals of Neurosciences. 2017;24(2):65-73. doi:https://doi.org/10.1159/000475895
5. Rapin L, Gamaoun R, El Hage C, Arboleda MF, Prosk E. Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic. Journal of Cannabis Research. 2021;3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00078-w
6. Hamilton LD, Meston CM. Chronic Stress and Sexual Function in Women. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2013;10(10):2443-2454. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/jsm.12249
7. Rowland DL, Cempel LM, Tempel AR. Women’s Attributions Regarding Why They Have Difficulty Reaching Orgasm. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy. 2018;44(5):475-484. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/0092623x.2017.1408046
8. Kasman AM, Bhambhvani HP, Wilson-King G, Eisenberg ML. Assessment of the Association of Cannabis on Female Sexual Function With the Female Sexual Function Index. Sexual Medicine. Published online July 2020. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2020.06.009
9. Moser A, Ballard SM, Jensen J, Averett P. The influence of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction. Journal of Cannabis Research. 2023;5(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-022-00169-2
10. Shiff B, Blankstein U, Hussaen J, et al. The impact of cannabis use on male sexual function: A 10-year, single-center experience. Canadian Urological Association Journal. 2021;15(12). doi:https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.7185
11. Parent N, Ferlatte O, Milloy M-J, Fast D, Knight R. The sexualised use of cannabis among young sexual minority men: “I’m actually enjoying this for the first time.” Culture, Health & Sexuality. Published online May 28, 2020:1-16. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/13691058.2020.1736634
12. Shiff B, Blankstein U, Hussaen J, et al. The impact of cannabis use on male sexual function: A 10-year, single-center experience. Canadian Urological Association Journal. 2021;15(12). doi:https://doi.org/10.5489/cuaj.7185
13. Pizzol D, Demurtas J, Stubbs B, et al. Relationship Between Cannabis Use and Erectile Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. American Journal of Men’s Health. 2019;13(6). doi:https://doi.org/10.1177/1557988319892464
