The Straight Dope on Dope-Sex and Marijuana

The occasional use of marijuana may enhance a man’s sexual performance. However, the long term effects of marijuana and not so pleasurable. The long-term affects include erectile dysfunction and loss of orgasm. Marijuana may also impact a man’s fertility.
Erectile Dysfunction
The Journal of Sexual Medicine published a study suggesting a link between marijuana and erectile dysfunction. The active ingredient in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. When a person uses marijuana, THC interacts with proteins in the brain called cannabinoid receptors. This interaction impairs the person’s brain function. There are also cannabinoid receptors present in penile tissue. Perhaps the interaction with THC may impair penile function (possibly causing erectile dysfunction)
Problems with Orgasm
In a study from Australia, men who used marijuana every day were four times more likely to have problems reaching orgasm than men who didn’t use weed. In addition, men who used marijuana every day were three times more likely to experience premature ejaculation than men who didn’t.
Other male daily users said they reached orgasm too slowly.
Fertility
Marijuana can also affect a man’s fertility. More specifically, THC hinders sperm cells’ ability to swim to an egg cell. And, if the sperm even reaches the egg, it will have a harder time fertilizing it.
Marijuana can also cause fertility issues for women. If a woman uses marijuana, THC can travel to her uterus, cervix, vagina, and vaginal fluids. Sperm cells that come into contact with THC from the woman behave much like sperm cells from a man who uses marijuana and the “swimmers” may have trouble reaching and then fertilizing the egg .
Therefore, couples who want to conceive are advised to avoid marijuana use.
The Bottom Line
If you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction or problems with orgasm, consider your marijuana intake. And if you planning on starting a family, you should steer clear of the weed.

This blog was modified from Marijuana and Male Sex Health, Published on May 31, 2011 on SexHealthMatters.org