What is Marijuana's Impact on Female Fertility?
09/12/2025
Recent research raises concerns about marijuana’s effects on female fertility, particularly how its primary psychoactive compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may influence unfertilized eggs in the ovaries. Studies suggest that higher THC levels could disrupt egg maturation and increase the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, potentially leading to infertility, miscarriage, or genetic issues in offspring. These findings highlight the need for caution among women using cannabis while planning to conceive.
The study analyzed ovarian fluid samples from women undergoing fertility treatments, comparing egg development in those with detectable THC levels to a control group. Results showed that eggs exposed to THC matured faster, which might seem beneficial but can compromise their readiness for fertilization. Proper chromosome alignment, critical for healthy embryo development, may be disrupted when eggs mature too quickly. In lab tests, immature eggs exposed to higher THC levels showed structural changes in spindles—components that ensure proper chromosome segregation—potentially increasing the risk of developmental issues in embryos.
Marijuana use during pregnancy is also on the rise, with some women turning to it to manage nausea or other symptoms, often believing it to be safe. However, prior research has linked cannabis use during pregnancy to adverse outcomes like low birth weight, premature delivery, and developmental challenges in children. The increasing potency of THC in cannabis products, which can exceed 40% in some forms, adds to the concern. Unlike regulated markets where THC levels are labeled, illegally purchased cannabis may lack clear potency information, making it harder for users to gauge their exposure.
Experts urge women trying to conceive to consider reducing cannabis use or exploring safer alternatives for symptom management. While these findings are not definitive and require further research to confirm, they suggest that minimizing THC exposure could be a practical step to support fertility and reduce potential reproductive risks. As cannabis becomes more accessible, understanding its impact on reproductive health remains critical for informed decision-making.
Reference
The study analyzed ovarian fluid samples from women undergoing fertility treatments, comparing egg development in those with detectable THC levels to a control group. Results showed that eggs exposed to THC matured faster, which might seem beneficial but can compromise their readiness for fertilization. Proper chromosome alignment, critical for healthy embryo development, may be disrupted when eggs mature too quickly. In lab tests, immature eggs exposed to higher THC levels showed structural changes in spindles—components that ensure proper chromosome segregation—potentially increasing the risk of developmental issues in embryos.
Marijuana use during pregnancy is also on the rise, with some women turning to it to manage nausea or other symptoms, often believing it to be safe. However, prior research has linked cannabis use during pregnancy to adverse outcomes like low birth weight, premature delivery, and developmental challenges in children. The increasing potency of THC in cannabis products, which can exceed 40% in some forms, adds to the concern. Unlike regulated markets where THC levels are labeled, illegally purchased cannabis may lack clear potency information, making it harder for users to gauge their exposure.
Experts urge women trying to conceive to consider reducing cannabis use or exploring safer alternatives for symptom management. While these findings are not definitive and require further research to confirm, they suggest that minimizing THC exposure could be a practical step to support fertility and reduce potential reproductive risks. As cannabis becomes more accessible, understanding its impact on reproductive health remains critical for informed decision-making.
Reference
