Adverse Effects of Cannabis on Male Reproduction

Abstract

The use of cannabis use is likely to increase as regulations on its consumption are diminishing throughout the world. Coinciding with an increase in the use of cannabis is an observation that semen quality appears to be declining in developed countries, and couples are delaying conception more often than previous generations. Therefore, it is important to study the effects of cannabis on male reproductive potential in order to better counsel infertile couples and men of reproductive age. In this mini-review, we highlight the known effects of cannabis on clinical markers of male fertility potential and review the role of the endocannabinoid system as it pertains to sex hormone and sperm production, as well as sperm function. Overall, current evidence is contradictory regarding the effects of cannabis on male reproductive hormone production. However, most studies associate cannabis use with lower sperm concentrations, suggesting a negative impact on fertility potential.

Keywords: Cannabis; Marijuana; Spermatogenesis; Testosterone.