A systematic review of 15 studies found that marijuana use was associated with adverse effects on sperm count, motility, morphology, and viability, though the evidence is observational and limited by small samples.
Reproductive endocrinologists, men trying to conceive, fertility researchers
Cannabis was linked to adverse effects across multiple sperm parameters including count, motility, and morphology
What the researchers found
Across 15 eligible studies, marijuana use was associated with reduced sperm count, concentration, motility, morphology, capacitation, and viability. Hormone changes in testosterone, LH, and FSH were also noted but could not be conclusively linked to fertility outcomes.
Why it matters
As cannabis use increases globally, understanding its impact on male fertility is increasingly important for men trying to conceive and for clinicians advising them.
The numbers in context
15 eligible studies included; adverse effects observed across sperm count, concentration, motility, morphology, capacitation, and viability; testosterone, LH, and FSH levels potentially affected; organic sexual dysfunction also noted.
How the study worked
Systematic review of 15 studies (systematic reviews, cross-sectional, case-control, cohort, and longitudinal designs) published 2010-2021, identified from PubMed, Google Scholar, and other databases, with quality assessment using appropriate appraisal tools.
What this study cannot tell us
All studies were observational; small sample sizes across multiple geographic locations; potential confounding from other lifestyle factors; no randomized controlled trials.
How to read the evidence
Systematic review of observational studies providing moderate evidence, limited by study designs and small samples.
When this study was published
Studies published 2010-2021.
The bigger picture
While the evidence points toward cannabis having negative effects on multiple sperm parameters, the reliance on observational data from small, geographically diverse samples means confounding factors like lifestyle and other substance use could be influencing the results.
Questions still open
- Are the effects on sperm parameters reversible with cannabis cessation? At what frequency or dose of cannabis use do fertility effects become clinically significant?
Common questions
Does marijuana affect male fertility?
Are the effects reversible?
Read the original research
The Effect of Marijuana on the Incidence and Evolution of Male Infertility: A Systematic Review.
Cureus, 13(12), e20119
Citation
Srinivasan, Mirra; Hamouda, Ranim K; Ambedkar, Baba; Arzoun, Hadia I; Sahib, Isra; Fondeur, Jack; Escudero Mendez, Lisbeth; Mohammed, Lubna. (2021). The Effect of Marijuana on the Incidence and Evolution of Male Infertility: A Systematic Review.. Cureus, 13(12), e20119. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.20119
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