THC disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, affecting key reproductive hormones, folliculogenesis, ovulation, and sperm function, though most evidence comes from preclinical studies.
People trying to conceive, fertility specialists, and reproductive health researchers.
THC disrupts GnRH, affecting folliculogenesis, ovulation, and sperm function
What the researchers found
THC indirectly decreases GnRH secretion from the hypothalamus, leading to disruptions in multiple reproductive hormones. This affects folliculogenesis, ovulation, and sperm maturation and function. While generally accepted that cannabinoid consumption impacts fertility, most strong evidence comes from preclinical rather than human studies.
Why it matters
Cannabis use is highest among young adults of reproductive age. Understanding its effects on fertility is important for those planning families.
The numbers in context
THC affects GnRH, folliculogenesis, ovulation, and sperm function. Cannabinoid receptors are present throughout the reproductive system.
How the study worked
Narrative review of clinical and preclinical evidence on cannabis effects on the endocannabinoid system in reproduction, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, male and female fertility, and teratogenicity.
What this study cannot tell us
Strong evidence mostly from animal studies. Human clinical data on fertility outcomes is limited and often confounded by other factors. Dose-response relationships in humans are poorly characterized.
How to read the evidence
Narrative review with strong preclinical evidence but limited human clinical data on fertility outcomes.
When this study was published
Published in 2022.
The bigger picture
The endocannabinoid system plays a natural role in reproduction, and external cannabinoids from cannabis use disrupt this finely tuned system at multiple points.
Questions still open
- At what frequency and dose does cannabis meaningfully impair fertility? Are effects reversible after stopping cannabis use?
Common questions
Does cannabis affect male and female fertility equally?
Is most of the evidence from humans?
Read the original research
Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Reproduction and Fertility: Where We Stand.
Reproductive sciences (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), 29(9), 2429-2439
Citation
Fonseca, Bruno M; Rebelo, Irene. (2022). Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Reproduction and Fertility: Where We Stand.. Reproductive sciences (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), 29(9), 2429-2439. https://doi.org/10.1007/s43032-021-00588-1
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