Introduction
When it comes to sexuality and the use of cannabis, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Back in 1966 Masters and Johnson established the human sexual response cycle which includes four phases: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution. Each of these phases is identified by the physiological responses of the body; however each phase may not be distinguishable from the next and rather seen as a whole.
From ancient cultures to modern science, the connection between human sexuality and cannabis has always been a topic of debate. While it’s widely known that cannabis affects many aspects of human physiology, there’s still a lot to learn about how it influences sexual functioning and psychological aspects, such as satisfaction.
In this article, we explore the research from both human and animal studies to get a better understanding of what role cannabis plays in sexual health. We look at the most common questions about sex and weed and provide insight into how to use cannabis in a way that promotes sexual pleasure and satisfaction.
Ultimately, this article will help readers gain an understanding of the potential benefits that cannabinoids can have on enhancing the sexual experience.
An Overview of Cannabis and Its Influence on Sexual physiology
The use of cannabis has been associated with various effects on sexual health. Research conducted in 2023, suggests that it may improve sexual desire and satisfaction. However, it is crucial to consider that individual responses to cannabis vary and its influence on sexual functioning depends largely on the context of use.
The use of marijuana has been linked to increased sexual arousal and heightened orgasmic response. Additionally, it can alleviate pain, making sex more comfortable for individuals with conditions such as endometriosis or vulvodynia. Nevertheless, frequent use may result in reduced libido, delayed ejaculation, and difficulty achieving orgasm, especially among females.
It is essential to recognize that the impact of cannabis on sexual health is complex and multifactorial. While cannabis may enhance physical pleasure in certain circumstances, it may also be counterproductive in others. For instance, it can impede sexual functioning when employed to manage negative emotions during sex or consumed in excessive amounts.
Therefore the response of the body from a physiological standpoint varies from person to person.
How Cannabis Can Influence a Person’s Sexual Function
Marijuana’s impact on sexual health has gained increasing attention in both anecdotal reports and scientific literature. Recent research, such as Moser (2023), suggests that cannabis use can improve sexual functioning, satisfaction, and pleasure.
The active components of marijuana, namely CBD and THC, can work together to produce a heightened sensory experience and relaxation. THC, a psychoactive compound, is known for its relaxation effects, which can reduce anxiety and induce feelings of euphoria. CBD, on the other hand, interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, sleep, appetite, and pain responses, all of which are crucial components of healthy sexual functioning.
The combined effects of THC and CBD may enhance arousal by providing the physical relaxation necessary to fully enjoy sex. Cannabis may also facilitate orgasm by promoting mindfulness of physical sensations. Although the overall experience can be considered positive we must also look at the negative aspects of chronic use of cannabis products on sexual function.
One of the major concerns when using marijuana is that of THC and the fact that many times it is smoked rather than consumed as an edible. Over-use of THC has also negative effects such as causing anxiety, paranoid delusions or preoccupations, reduction in fertility by impacting male sperm counts and negative mental health effects. Apart from that when smoked chronically it may lead to respiratory problems like COPD, Asthma or lung and mouth carcinomas.
In summary, cannabis use may have a positive impact on sexual functioning, satisfaction, and pleasure through the combined effects of THC and CBD. These cannabinoids may enhance arousal, promote relaxation, and facilitate orgasm. However apart from the positive effects one should take note of the negatives and the impact that it can have in the long term.
Cannabis and Its Effects on Sexual Pleasure and Satisfaction
Cannabis has been found to influence sexual functioning and satisfaction in both positive and negative ways. Research has shown that it can increase feelings of pleasure and satisfaction through its effects on the endocannabinoid system, which plays an important role in regulating sexual arousal. However, it can also impair sexual function such as by delaying ejaculation or reducing libido. The negative effects of THC which mainly include paranoia, anxiety, inhibited orgasm, lack of interest might be counteracted by taking CBD which counteracts the negative reactions ( Russo 2018; Guy 2005). Therefore the balance of CBD and THC is important to avoid adverse reactions.
For many users, cannabis helps create a sense of relaxation and an overall improved sense of well-being, which can make sex more enjoyable. Cannabis can also reduce anxiety associated with sexual performance and help enhance physical pleasure. Additionally, its effects on the endocannabinoid system can increase sensations of touch.
Cannabis was shown to intensify feelings of connection and intimacy between two people, making it easier to reach higher levels of satisfaction during a sexual encounter. This heightened connection can enhance communication and make it easier to talk about preferences or desires without fear or judgment – leading to increased pleasure for both partners(Testa 2020).
CBD’s Influence on the Sexual Experience
CBD (cannabidiol) has become a popular supplement for many people looking to improve their overall health and well-being. While there are plenty of studies looking at CBD’s effects on physical health, there is still much to explore when it comes to how it can offer benefits for sexual functioning and satisfaction.
When it comes to CBD’s potential effect on sexual functioning and satisfaction, the research is still in its infancy. So far, research has shown that CBD can help with boosting libido, reducing anxiety and stress, improving focus, enhancing sensation, and increasing pleasure.
Here are some of the key ways that CBD can influence the sexual experience:
- Reducing Anxiety & Stress: By helping to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety in the mind and body, CBD can make engaging in sexual activity more enjoyable.
- Enhancing Pleasure: Research suggests that CBD may interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) in a way that helps increase pleasure during sex by stimulating certain receptors.
- Improving Focus & Clarity: When you’re feeling relaxed but focused, you’ll be better able to appreciate the sensations of sex and fully enjoy it with your partner or alone.
- Enhancing Sensations: The calming effects of CBD have been shown to help relax both the mind and body, allowing for greater sensation recall throughout the entire experience.
Research Findings on Marijuana Use and User Experience
Research suggests that consuming cannabis prior to engaging in sexual activities can have various effects on the user’s experience. In fact, one study found that marijuana use before sex increased the likelihood of more sexual pleasure and satisfaction.
In addition, another study of heterosexual couples who used marijuana before sex concluded that cannabis use was associated with an increase in pleasure, orgasm intensity, and increased desire for physical closeness during their encounters. Moreover, the study found that marijuana users rated their overall sexual experience as more positive than those who did not use cannabis before engaging in sexual activities.
This potential benefit of using cannabis prior to sex is consistent with some research that suggests marijuana can improve mood and relaxation levels, which are intrinsically linked to sexual pleasure. Furthermore, cannabis is believed to help some with the anxiety surrounding sex and can reduce pain – both factors which can have a direct impact on a person’s performance and satisfaction when it comes to sexual activity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the effects of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction remain largely unclear, often influenced by the individual dose, potency of the strain, the frequency of use, and personal expectations. For some, cannabis may improve sexual functioning and pleasure while for others it may lead to decreased performance and satisfaction. Ultimately, the use of cannabis during sex and its effects on sexual satisfaction should be seen as an individual experience and further research is needed to elucidate the possible effects of cannabis use on sexual functioning and satisfaction.
However the research sheds light on the possibility of using cannabis products to improve the overall experience in certain subgroups of people or specific cases.
references
Moser A, Ballard SM, Jensen J, Averett P. The influence of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction. J Cannabis Res. 2023 Jan 20;5(1):2. doi: 10.1186/s42238-022-00169-2. PMID: 36658600; PMCID: PMC9854104.
Testa M, Wang W, Derrick JL, Leonard KE. Marijuana Use Episodes and Partner Intimacy Experiences: A Daily Report Study. Cannabis. 2019;2(1):19-28. doi: 10.26828/cannabis.2019.01.002. Epub 2019 Feb 9. PMID: 30923794; PMCID: PMC6433396.
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/cbd-and-libido#drawbacks