Education

The Effect of Cannabis on Sex

Wondering how cannabis affects sex and sex drive? Yeah, you do. Like most things between the sheets, cannabis might help but only if you go about it the right way.

Do you like to smoke up as you get down? Maybe the smooth vibes of a little green always gets you in the mood. If you’re curious about the relationship between cannabis and sex then look no further, we are here to talk about the sexy side of everyone’s favourite herb.

Cannabis has both the reputation of being a potent herbal aphrodisiac and a libido diminisher; some say that it facilitates intense desire and others that it inhibits sexual arousal and performance. So which is right?

Well, the scientific research on cannabis and sex is also a mixed bag. It is a complicated connection to study for a few different reasons, one of which is long-term prohibition. Since cannabis was illegal for decades, it wasn’t studied extensively in a scientific arena. The second reason there’s no easy answer to the cannabis and sex question is because of the deeply personal and varied ways that we measure sexual satisfaction and arousal.

So the simple answer to how cannabis affects sex drive is, in a word, inconclusive. But let’s roll around together in some field research and sexy anecdotal evidence to create a better picture of what happens when we combine these two wonderful joys of life.

What is the relationship between cannabis and sex?

Some cannabis users report that certain strains can enhance the feeling of touch and create a more intensely pleasurable experience during sex. If spicing things up in the bedroom is on your mind, cannabis can be a useful and enjoyable tool.

Keep in mind that there is no specific strain that works best in bed, as everyone reacts to different strains in varied ways. Whether you decide to go for a classic indica or an exotic sativa, the strain that you chose should help you reap the benefits of a more relaxed state of mind, which can ease any potential nerves that could steal some enjoyment.

For more inexperienced cannabis uses, understanding a little bit about the difference between indica and sativa could be a start in choosing the right strain for your own personal sexual enhancement. Another great option for a cannabis-laced romp is CBD/THC lube and massage oil. These products can enhance relaxation and pleasure while also doing the double duty of creating an erotic, marijuana-infused environment.

How can cannabis affect and have an impact on sex?

The findings on the effect that cannabis has on sex are nuanced and inconclusive, especially considering the lack of formal scientific research. The handful of anecdotal cases that have been performed show some trends in an enhanced response to touch, more pleasurable orgasm, and a greater feeling of connection to their partner (for both men and women). Keep in mind that these are not totally reliable as they are self-reported. Jordan Tishler, M.D., medical cannabis expert at InhaleMD in Boston says that “a lot of the understanding that needs to go into a discussion around cannabis and sexuality has less to do with cannabis and more to do with sexuality.” So, simply, if it enhances your personal experience then it’s a welcomed and safe addition to your sexual practices.

Can cannabis lower sex drive?

There is some evidence that cannabis can have negative effects on sperm count among chronic, heavy users. As reported in a SELF online magazine article, according to a 2015 study in the American Journal of Epidemiology “researchers looked at the semen quality of about 1,200 Danish men between the ages of 18 and 28. Nearly half of that sample (45 percent) reported using cannabis within the previous three months. Their results showed that those who used cannabis frequently—more than once a week—had a 28 percent reduction in sperm concentration and a 29 percent lower sperm count compared to those who used once a week or less.”

If you are at a place in your life that sperm count matters to you, these findings may be something to consider before indulging.

“…results showed that those who used cannabis
frequently—more than once a week had
a 28 percent reduction in sperm concentration”
2015 Study American Journal of Epidemiology

How to enjoy both cannabis & sex safely?

As cannabis is still a psychoactive substance and can affect different people in very different ways, it’s important to understand the strength and dosage that you are taking before diving in. Consulting a reputable and trusted distributor can help to answer any questions that might arise on THC levels and cannabis quality.

Active and ongoing consent rules still apply during sex while high, so make sure to have honest conversations with your partner before engaging in a cannabis/sex combo to ensure that all boundaries are in place and understood.

Whether you decide to smoke a bit, massage your partner or use some THC-infused lube, with the right preparation, sex and cannabis use can be an enjoyable experience for all involved.