Table of Contents
Does Marijuana Affect Sperm ?
Marijuana, primarily through its psychoactive compound THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in reproduction. Increasing evidence shows that marijuana can negatively influence sperm parameters and male fertility.
Hormonal Disruption
- Mechanism: THC affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
- Impact: Reduced secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) impairs testosterone levels and sperm production (spermatogenesis).
Effects on Sperm Parameters
a. Sperm Count & Concentration
- Chronic use is associated with lower sperm count and concentration.
- A 2015 Harvard study found a 28% lower sperm concentration in frequent marijuana users.
b. Sperm Motility
- THC interacts with CB1 receptors in sperm, impairing energy production and motility (the ability to swim toward the egg).
c. Sperm Morphology
- Marijuana increases the percentage of abnormally shaped sperm, which can hinder fertilization.
DNA Integrity and Epigenetics
- DNA Fragmentation: THC exposure increases breaks in sperm DNA, linked to infertility and miscarriage.
- Epigenetic Changes: THC may alter gene expression in sperm, with potential effects on offspring health.
Reversibility
- Sperm regenerates approximately every 74 days.
- Some studies show improvements in sperm quality after stopping marijuana use, although recovery can vary.
Conclusion
Marijuana use, particularly frequent or long-term, can harm sperm quality by disrupting hormones, reducing count, impairing motility, and damaging DNA. Men concerned with fertility are advised to abstain from cannabis during pre-conception planning to optimize reproductive health.
