5 Myths About Marijuana Use and Sex – Debunked

There’s no shortage of misinformation surrounding marijuana and its effects on sexual health. From concerns about fertility to performance issues, many people wonder if cannabis is really a hindrance or a help in the bedroom. Let’s take a closer look at five common myths and break them down with the facts.

Myth 1: Marijuana Lowers Your Sperm Count

One of the most persistent myths about marijuana is that it drastically reduces sperm count, often leading people to believe that cannabis use has long-term fertility consequences. While some early studies suggested that heavy cannabis use could be linked to lower sperm count, more recent research paints a more complex picture. For example, a 2021 study found no significant change in sperm count, motility, or morphology for men who used cannabis occasionally.

The key point here is that moderate cannabis use doesn’t appear to have the same negative effects as heavy, daily use. As with most substances, balance is important.

Bottom line: Light marijuana use isn’t likely to impact sperm count. If you’re concerned about fertility, moderation is key.

Myth 2: Cannabis Lowers Your Libido

Many people believe that marijuana kills desire, but the reality is more nuanced. Some research shows that cannabis use can actually increase sexual desire and arousal for many people. The compound THC in cannabis can stimulate dopamine production, which plays a role in pleasure and motivation, potentially enhancing the experience of intimacy.

However, the effects vary widely. For some, excessive use of cannabis may lead to lower libido, particularly if it causes tiredness or mental fog. So, while marijuana can boost libido for some, it’s not guaranteed, and too much may have the opposite effect.

Bottom line: Marijuana doesn’t inherently lower libido. For many, it may actually enhance sexual desire, but this can depend on the individual and the amount used.

Myth 3: You Can’t Perform Well Under the Influence of Marijuana

There’s a common belief that being high on marijuana makes it difficult to perform sexually, but this isn’t universally true. Research suggests that while marijuana may affect coordination or reaction time at high doses, moderate use can have the opposite effect, helping some individuals feel more relaxed and present in the moment. This can be especially helpful for people who experience anxiety or stress related to intimacy.

The key is moderation. While small amounts of marijuana may enhance sexual experience by reducing tension, too much can lead to impaired physical performance or loss of focus.

Bottom line: Moderate marijuana use doesn’t necessarily hinder sexual performance. In fact, it can help some people relax and feel more connected to their partner.

Myth 4: Cannabis Use Leads to Erectile Dysfunction

Another common myth is that cannabis use directly causes erectile dysfunction (ED). While it’s true that some heavy and chronic cannabis use has been linked to ED, the evidence is not definitive. Studies suggest that ED related to marijuana use is more likely to occur with consistent, excessive use rather than occasional or moderate consumption.

In some cases, cannabis may even help reduce anxiety and stress, two common causes of erectile dysfunction. However, individual responses to cannabis vary, and it’s important to consider other factors like overall health and lifestyle when addressing ED.

Bottom line: Cannabis doesn’t automatically cause erectile dysfunction. For most people, moderate use doesn’t have this effect, but heavy use may contribute to sexual health issues in some individuals.

Myth 5: You Become Detached From Having Sex While You’re High on Marijuana

Some believe that marijuana use can cause a detachment from reality or make it harder to connect with a partner during sex. While cannabis does affect perception and awareness, it doesn't necessarily make people feel disconnected. Many users report heightened sensory experiences, including increased sensitivity to touch, which can enhance the sexual experience.

However, the impact of cannabis on sexual connection varies from person to person. For some, too much cannabis can cause them to feel overly introspective or less focused on their partner, but for others, it can promote a deeper sense of connection and relaxation.

Bottom line: Cannabis doesn’t always cause detachment during sex. For many, it can enhance the experience by increasing sensory awareness and connection.

Conclusion

Marijuana’s impact on sex is more complex than the myths suggest. While heavy use may have negative effects on sexual health, moderate cannabis consumption is unlikely to lead to significant issues for most people. It can even enhance intimacy for some, helping with relaxation and reducing anxiety. As with any substance, moderation and individual responses should guide your use.

If you have concerns about how marijuana might affect your sexual health, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider. You can also explore more about the effects of cannabis on sexual health through these resources:

• National Institutes of Health on Cannabis and Fertility
• American Urological Association on Cannabis and ED
• Cannabis Use and Sexual Satisfaction (PubMed)

Approaching cannabis use responsibly is the key to ensuring it benefits your overall well-being.