Effects of Marijuana on Male Sexual Life: Are They Fully Understood?
Effects of marijuana on male sexual life are still not entirely clear. Some studies suggest possible positive and negative impacts, including changes in libido, erectile function, and semen quality. Read on to learn more.
Research in this area remains scarce, leading to uncertain conclusions. While some findings indicate that marijuana may enhance sexual experiences, other studies point out that cannabis can affect male libido, cause erectile dysfunction, and impact semen quality. Check it out below.
What Does Science Say About Marijuana Use and Sexual Performance?
According to Carl Sagan, the effects of marijuana on sexual life were positive.
The astronomer, astrophysicist, writer, and activist described in the book Marihuana Reconsidered that the herb “increases the pleasure of sex” and provides “exquisite sensitivity.”
But was Sagan right? Science has not yet reached a firm conclusion because there are few studies, and the data collected often come from regular users with different profiles and varied dosages.
Some believe that marijuana improves sexual performance. The study The influence of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction, published in the Journal of Cannabis Research, is an example.
Of the 811 people interviewed, over 70% reported an increase in sexual desire and orgasm intensity. Pleasure also became more intense during masturbation for 62.5% of participants, and 71% noticed enhanced sensitivity to touch.
Meanwhile, the study The impact of cannabis use on male sexual function: A 10-year, single-center experience analyzes the records of patients at an andrology clinic between 2008 and 2017.
Out of 7,809 men, 993 were cannabis users and 6,816 were not. Those who used marijuana scored higher on the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM) questionnaires, which measure, respectively, erectile function and symptoms of androgen deficiency in aging males.
Can Marijuana Improve Male Sexual Life?
The researchers of the aforementioned study The influence of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction suggest that the reported effects may be linked to psychological factors and individual expectations rather than a confirmed physiological impact.
Another conclusion from this same study is that positive effects were more noticeable in women with vaginismus, a condition where the vaginal muscles contract during penetration.
Which Undesirable Effects Can Marijuana Cause in Male Sexual Life?
Recreational marijuana use affects hormone production, and this article from CEBRID (the Brazilian Center for Information on Psychotropic Drugs) explains the relationship between testosterone and marijuana.
Cannabis reduces hormone levels by 50–60%. With lower testosterone, male libido decreases, and men may also experience difficulties achieving erections.
Erectile Dysfunction
Besides regulating libido, testosterone is also important for erectile function.
Low levels of male hormone reduce the amount of nitric oxide. This substance dilates the penile blood vessels, promoting the increased blood flow required for an erection to occur.
Premature or Delayed Ejaculation
One of the effects of marijuana on male sexual life is premature ejaculation, where a man ejaculates within 1 to 2 minutes after penetration or even before it. According to the International Society for Sexual Medicine, men who use cannabis may ejaculate too quickly.
Delayed ejaculation, which is difficulty in ejaculating, can also be a side effect. THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, may reduce the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter tied to pleasure and motivation. This results in decreased sexual desire and reduced physical and emotional sensitivity.
Lack of Libido
Some studies state that marijuana can harm male libido. The reason is that THC initially produces pleasure and euphoria. However, continuous use may alter the brain’s capacity to produce and release dopamine. Because dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, reward, and pleasure, marijuana users may experience reduced sexual desire.
Testosterone and Marijuana: What Is the Impact on the Male Reproductive System?
According to this article published in the National Library of Medicine, marijuana can affect male fertility. The reason is that the herb decreases sperm count and hinders sperm motility.
The authors conclude that further studies are needed to confirm the effects of marijuana on the male reproductive system. They also note that physicians should consider these findings before prescribing medical marijuana therapies for men.
Is It Safe to Use Marijuana to Improve Sexual Performance?
The effects of marijuana use on sexual health are not yet fully understood. While some reports indicate potential positive outcomes, other studies point to risks for sexual health, as well as physical and psychological well-being. Check them out below:
- Reduced sexual motivation;
- Difficulty concentrating;
- Premature or delayed ejaculation;
- Low libido;
- Erectile dysfunction;
- Respiratory problems;
- Cancer risk, especially in long-term users (over 10 years).
When to Seek Medical Help for Marijuana-Related Sexual Problems?
You should seek medical advice if you experience issues such as low libido, trouble achieving or maintaining an erection, or ejaculation problems.
If you are experiencing any sexual dysfunction, complete a pre-analysis with Dr. Paulo Egydio and receive personalized guidance for your case.
