Cannabis, popularly known as marijuana, has been the focus of extensive discussion and study for decades. It is crucial to investigate marijuana’s possible impacts on numerous facets of human health in light of its increasing acceptance and legalization in various parts of the world. The link between marijuana usage and fertility is one such topic of inquiry. Let’s examine the existing research on this subject, distinguishing reality from myth and illuminating what is already known about the impacts of marijuana on fertility.
Other than fertility, medical marijuana has shown postive effect on many ailments such as epilepsy, chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, PTSD. If you are suffering from any of the above, you can apply for WV medical marijuanas card online.
Understanding the Components of Marijuana
It’s vital to comprehend the components of marijuana before proceeding with the discussion. THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is marijuana’s main psychoactive component and is what gives users of the drug their characteristic “high.” In addition, marijuana contains approximately 100 other cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), which has no euphoric effects but may have therapeutic promise.
Marijuana’s Effect on Male Fertility
The link between marijuana use and male fertility has been investigated in several research. Heavy and ongoing marijuana usage may harm a man’s ability to reproduce, according to some research. For instance, research has shown that marijuana can increase the quantity of defective sperm while decreasing sperm motility and sperm count. In addition, hormonal abnormalities, such as low testosterone levels, have been linked to marijuana use.
A 2019 study that examined semen samples from over 600 men revealed that individuals who used marijuana more frequently than once per week had considerably lower sperm counts than non-users. The findings were based on research that was published in the journal Human Reproduction. It’s crucial to remember that heavy and frequent users were the ones who experienced these consequences. It’s possible that infrequent users of marijuana who take the drug moderately won’t notice any substantial changes in male fertility.
Additionally, a 2018 study that appeared in the American Journal of Epidemiology looked at the relationship between marijuana usage and fecundity, or the likelihood of getting pregnant, in relationships. The results showed that men who used marijuana had somewhat lower
fecundability, which may have an effect on fertility. The study did draw attention to the fact that the benefit was slight and might not have clinical significance for the majority of couples.
Effects of Marijuana on Female Fertility
Despite the lack of studies on the subject, some studies have raised the possibility that marijuana use may have an impact on female fertility. Women who use marijuana are more likely to experience irregular menstrual cycles, less ovulation, and changing hormone levels. The data is not as strong as it is in the case of male fertility; it is crucial to remember.
Women who used marijuana had lower levels of estradiol, a kind of estrogen, and greater levels of testosterone, according to research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2017. These hormonal abnormalities may impair fertility by interfering with the menstrual cycle and ovulation. However, further investigation is required to correlate marijuana usage with female fertility.
The effects of marijuana usage on the results of assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), were the subject of another study that was published in the Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics in 2020. The study discovered that a considerably decreased live birth rate after IVF therapy was linked to the female partner’s marijuana use. It’s crucial to keep in mind that this study had a limited sample size, and additional research is required to support these conclusions.
The Bottom Line
The question of marijuana use and fertility is complicated and constantly changing. Several considerations must be taken into account, even if some research has revealed that marijuana may have harmful impacts on both male and female fertility. Depending on the use’s frequency and length, the manner of ingestion, and individual differences, marijuana’s effect on fertility may differ.
It’s significant to highlight that the majority of the study done up to this point has targeted heavy and long-term marijuana users. It’s possible that occasional and moderate use won’t have the same negative effects. More study is necessary, though, to fully grasp marijuana’s possible effects on fertility as legalization and acceptance of the drug grow.
Consult a healthcare provider if you’re attempting to get pregnant or worried about your fertility. They can give you individualized advice based on your unique situation and assist you in making wise selections.
We must approach the subject with an open mind as our knowledge of marijuana’s effects on fertility develops and rely on evidence-based studies to distinguish fact from fantasy. By doing this, we may promote an intelligent and nuanced discussion on the possible dangers and advantages of marijuana usage for reproductive health. In the end, more study will help us understand how marijuana use may affect fertility, allowing individuals and couples to make educated decisions about their reproductive aspirations.
