Here’s How Smoking Weed Affects Fertility, According to an Infertility Doctor

Marijuana, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, contains several psychoactive compounds, the most prominent being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate various physiological processes, including fertility and reproduction. This system’s receptors are found throughout the reproductive organs of both men and women, impacting everything from sperm production in the testes to ovulation in the ovaries and even playing a role in the uterus, where it may influence implantation and the early stages of pregnancy.

You probably already know that marijuana usage is on the rise, and age plays a significant role in this trend. According to Gallup data, roughly a quarter of young adults aged 18 to 34 report smoking marijuana (26%), while the figure dips to 18% among those aged 35 to 54 and drops further to 11% among those 55 and older. Given THC’s interaction with the reproductive system, these statistics lead to a pressing question: How does smoking weed affect fertility?

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Ahead, what the latest scientific research and expert opinions reveal about the impact of marijuana on male and female fertility and whether you should consider quitting if you’re planning to conceive.

How smoking weed impacts male fertility

Neel Parekh, MD, a board-certified urologist and male infertility and men’s health specialist in the Department of Urology at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, shares that there’s credible scientific evidence linking marijuana use to changes in sperm health. “Research has indicated that smoking marijuana can affect various aspects of male reproductive health, including sperm count, motility and morphology.” He continues, “It is also associated with alterations in hormone levels, including lower levels of testosterone, which is crucial for maintaining healthy sperm production.”

A 2021 study conducted by Marah Hehemann, MD and Omer Raheem, MD, both board-certified urologists specializing in men’s sexual health and male infertility research, examined the sperm health of 409 patients. They found that both current and past marijuana users exhibited significantly worse sperm morphology and volume compared to those who had never used it.

Additional research points to another concern: Marijuana might increase DNA fragmentation in sperm. This can compromise the genetic integrity of the sperm and potentially lead to fertility challenges. “While there is evidence of these effects, the clinical significance can vary among patients, and more research is needed to understand the long-term effects of marijuana,” says Dr. Parekh.

How smoking weed impacts female fertility

For women, the relationship between marijuana use and fertility is equally complex. Reproductive health experts Jamie Lo, MD, Carol Hanna, PhD, and Jason Hedges, MD, PhD, in an article published in Contemporary OB/GYN Journal, share how THC exposure can disrupt reproductive hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. These disruptions can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and even stop ovulation altogether.

They point out that the evidence varies, though. Some studies see minimal effects, while others link regular marijuana use (more than three times in three months) to longer menstrual cycles and increased chances of not ovulating. One particular study involving 201 women revealed that those who used marijuana saw their ovulation delayed by 1.7 to 3.5 days compared to non-users. Notably, 43% of the cycles where ovulation did not occur were among marijuana users, who only represented 15% of the study group.

Marijuana use also seems to impact fertility treatments as well. Women who smoked weed within a year before undergoing procedures like IVF had poorer outcomes, retrieving 25% fewer oocytes and experiencing a 28% lower fertilization rate.

Pregnancy and beyond

The implications of marijuana use extend into pregnancy, as THC crosses the placenta and can affect fetal development. “There is stronger evidence linking maternal marijuana use to lower birth weight, preterm birth and developmental problems such as impaired cognitive function and behavioral issues,” explains Dr. Parekh.

Given the uncertainties and potential risks, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advises against the use of marijuana for those who are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. The possible effects on a child’s early development and future health remain a significant concern and an active area of study.

The bottom line

For couples trying to conceive, the safest approach is to abstain from marijuana use due to its potential negative effects on fertility and pregnancy outcomes. If you find quitting challenging, don’t hesitate to seek support from your healthcare provider. They can offer the necessary resources and guidance to help you. Additionally, if you have any concerns about your fertility, your healthcare provider is the best resource to turn to for advice and assistance.

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