Sex and cannabis

Research has demonstrated that cannabis can affect functionings associated with sex by interacting with multiple processes; cannabinoids (mostly THC and CBD) bind with the endocannabinoid system–deriving from the plant Cannabis sativa which has receptors in many body systems–even in genital tissues and brain regions relating to sexual functioning. The endocannabinoid system processes the information about sensation, inhibition, and neurochemical activity related to pleasure and arousal.

For many casual users, cannabis messes with the sensory perception of the sexual encounter enhancing the perceptions of sensation, such that the physical sensations of touch become even clearer. Importantly, cannabis can distort our perception of time, which may preshape the feeling that the sexual experience lasts longer. Many users agree that they also have a better emotional connection to their partners than when they are not under the influence of cannabis. Many users in this study suggested that they related their better experience to being less anxious in social situations, which supports cannabis as a relaxing experience.

The influence of cannabis on sexual functioning

Some studies show moderate cannabis use may enhance female sexual desire and orgasm intensity and encourage a good experience for sex. Many women also reported increased vaginal lubrication and less painful intercourse when they consumed cannabis and may especially be useful to those experiencing dyspareunia (painful intercourse) or vaginismus.

For men, however it gets complicated. In some cases, while a number of men report increased desire and pleasure with cannabis, regular or chronic cannabis use has been linked to erectile dysfunction in a few studies, due to cannabis’s effects on testosterone production and cardiovascular function. Some studies suggest that the dosage of cannabis is the key – occasional or moderate use does not seem to lead to the same issues as heavy chronic use. The relaxation effects that cannabis can produce will help men whose sexual dysfunction is primarily related to anxiety or stress. 

Dose and variety matter

Higher THC varieties often result in increased desire, but the performance may suffer due to the cognitive strain. CBD-dominant strain probably reduces anxiety, but without having strong psycho-active effects. The mode of consumption also has implication – smoking results in a fast onset but the impact is shorter than other forms like edibles, which have a slower onset but the effects last longer.

Individual factors are strongly determinative in how cannabis has a sexual effect. Most everything from personality, previous experience with cannabis, environment, relationship dynamics and genetics will influence if cannabis improves or disrupts their sexual functioning. 

Long term cannabis use will have different outcomes than occasional use, with regular, heavy users chronic exposure likely resulting in desensitization, increasing the tolerance of the positives of cannabis while limiting the negatives. Some literature in this area mentions that chronic users might also lead to decreased motivation for sex in some people.

For those considering using cannabis to improve sex, some initial planning can help set intention – and if you chose to use cannabis, a low dose, an appropriate environment, clear communication with partners, and consent become central considerations. Honestly evaluating each individual’s motivations for coalescing cannabis and sex is the key to developing a health pattern of use while limiting negatives.