Does cannabis affect fertility?
What affects fertility?
Fertility can be described as a fundamental element of reproductive health, which is influenced by a wide range of factors, not only biological but also, for example, environmental. However, biological factors (such as age) play a key role. Female fertility peaks in youth and gradually declines, especially after the age of 35. For men, the pattern is similar, although the decline in fertility is not as steep.
Lifestyle is also key to fertility. Factors such as inappropriate diet, lack of exercise, stress and exposure to toxic substances can negatively affect fertility. For example, obesity in women can lead to hormonal imbalances and difficulties with ovulation, while in men excessive alcohol or smoking can negatively affect sperm quality. Stress can affect hormonal balance and reduce the potential for successful pregnancy. Sleep quality and health status also affect fertility in both sexes. Illnesses such as endometriosis, diabetes or infections of the reproductive organs can make the chances of getting pregnant more difficult, or in some cases even impossible.
Fertility and cannabis. How is it?
Many people are interested in whether and how cannabis use affects fertility and the overall reproductive capacity of both men and women. There are many studies on the effects that long-term cannabis use can have on the potential for successful pregnancy and on a man's and woman's reproductive health. In this article, we'll take these scientific findings one step at a time.
Cannabis and sperm
For men, it has been found that past use of cannabis substances and products can affect sperm production. Some studies have suggested that cannabis may reduce sperm count and sperm motility.
A 2022 study by researchers at Oregon Health & Science University confirmed that chronic cannabis use can significantly affect male fertility and reproductive capacity. But it also showed that these negative changes may not be permanent. If a man quits long-term and repeated use of cannabis substances, it is likely that the negative effects of cannabis consumption on a man's reproductive abilities will at least partially improve within a few months.
Regarding the quality of male sperm, some studies suggest that cannabis use may affect sperm motility and sperm frequency, which may have an impact on fertility. However, the results of studies in this area are inconsistent and it is not yet clear what specific effects cannabis has on sperm quality.
Cannabis and the menstrual cycle
For women, the question is whether cannabis consumption can affect ovulation and the menstrual cycle. Some research suggests that for some women, cannabis use may interfere with cycle regularity and ovulation. This may have a potential impact on fertility and the possibility of pregnancy. Clear conclusions are still lacking and therefore it is not possible to assess these effects at this time.
In any case, the cannabinoid CBD (cannabidiol) cannot be overlooked in relation to the menstrual cycle. For women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome, it may be a pleasant finding that CBD can relieve headaches, cramps, irritability, anxiety, insomnia and other unpleasant symptoms.
Cannabis and the risk of miscarriage
A study by researchers at Boston University reveals that there may be an alarming link between marijuana use and reproductive problems. The research followed 1,535 couples who were trying to conceive a child, and the results are disturbing. According to the findings, marijuana use by men at least once a week was associated with a higher risk of spontaneous abortion among their female partners.
The main cause of these abortions was probably sperm degeneration caused by smoking cannabis. Although a damaged sperm can fertilise an egg, its defective characteristics subsequently prevent the proper development of the fetus, leading to miscarriage. These findings highlight the important aspects associated with cannabis use and its potential impact on reproductive health.
Conclusion
It is important to note that the research on cannabis and fertility is not yet complete, and existing studies have limitations and shortcomings. In addition, the effects of cannabis may vary depending on the method of use (smoking, consumption of oils or cannabis products) and the specific dosage.
But it is clear that a healthy lifestyle can positively affect fertility and improve the chances of conceiving a healthy offspring.
If you are concerned about the negative impact of cannabis on fertility and are planning to conceive a child with your partner, consult a doctor.
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