Can Smoking Weed Every Day Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Marijuana, also referred to as weed, is the dried flowers, stems, and seeds from the Cannabis indica or Cannabis sativa plant. People commonly use it for recreational purposes.

The psychoactive compound present in weed, namely tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has numerous effects on male sexual health, including erectile dysfunction.

Erectile dysfunction, also known as impotence, is a form of sexual dysfunction in men characterized by the inability to maintain and get a penile erection. It is the most common sexual problem in men [1].

Does weed affect erections? Or what is the link between smoking weed and erectile dysfunction? Let’s find out.

Can Weed Cause Erectile Dysfunction?

Potential Links Between Marijuana and ED [2]:

Blood flow and circulation

THC found in weed can influence cardiovascular activity, causing fluctuations in blood pressure. Erections rely on proper blood flow to the penis, and any disruption can make it harder to get and keep one. For some people, especially those with pre-existing heart ailments, such changes can increase the risk of ED in men.

Psychological effects

Long-term use of weed can sometimes lead to anxiety, reduced motivation, or depression. These mental health issues are closely linked to impotence in men.

Hormonal changes

The use of weed may reduce the levels of testosterone temporarily. Since testosterone is crucial for sexual desire and erectile function, a reduction in this sex hormone could lead to issues in the bedroom.

Mixed anecdotal evidence

Some weed users report heightened sexual arousal or pleasure, while others complain of difficulty maintaining an erection. This inconsistency suggests that marijuana affects individuals differently based on their unique dosage, physiology, and frequency of use.

The Science Behind Marijuana And Erectile Dysfunction

Pros Of Weed

Smoking cannabis can cause euphoria (intense feelings of excitement, well-being, and happiness). As a result, the effect could lead to elevated mood, increased arousal, and increased sexual desire [3].

In research by Amanda Moser et al., published in 2023, it was stated that the use of cannabis increases sexual functioning and satisfaction, particularly orgasm intensity and sexual desire.

High cholesterol is one of the most common factors causing erectile dysfunction. A study published in Clinical and Developmental Immunology found that weed (cannabis) may help reduce tissue buildup and damage resulting from high cholesterol. The study was conducted on mice, so more research is required.

Cons Of Weed

Weed may not always provide a sexual boost to people.  A literature review published in 2011 in The Journal of Sexual Medicine concluded that marijuana may increase the risk of erectile dysfunction in men [4].

Studies found that when THC  reaches the brain, it makes users feel high. This interferes with the normal functioning of the body. It may also interfere with the normal functioning of the smooth muscles present in the penis, resulting in ED [5].

In a study with 3,395 men, 1,131 men used cannabis, whereas the rest did not. Among weed users, 69.1% experienced ED. This data suggests a link between the use of marijuana and erectile dysfunction [6].

The use of cannabis can cause hormonal imbalances in men, which can lead to impaired sexual function.

Therefore, based on the previously mentioned evidence, we can conclude that the relationship between cannabis and ED is not entirely clear, and further research is necessary.

 Ways to Counteract Weed-Induced Erectile Dysfunction

Below, we have discussed some ways to counteract weed-induced erectile dysfunction.

Exercise

Many lifestyle changes help to reduce the symptoms of ED, but exercising can have the most significant impact, “says Zachary R. Mucher, MD, a urologist in Sugar Land, Texas.

Learn about the best exercises for erectile dysfunction in detail by just visiting our blog page, “How effective are exercises for ED.”

Healthy Diet

Dr. Mucher says that food has a direct impact on impotence. A diet rich in veggies, fruits, whole grains, and fish, with fewer servings of refined grains and red meat, decreases the risk of erectile dysfunction.

Sleep

Getting adequate sleep every day is crucial for overall health. Proper sleep may also improve ED. Men who worked night shifts and reported worse sleep quality were at higher risk of sexual dysfunction, according to a 2017 study [7].

Does Quitting Weed Improve Erectile Function?

Quitting weed can improve sexual health significantly. Below are some benefits:

Improved blood circulation

Once weed is out of the system, blood circulation improves, leading to a better and firmer erection.

Increased levels of testosterone

Quitting weed may help restore hormonal balance, potentially increasing the levels of testosterone.

Reduced anxiety

A clearer mind can help reduce anxiety during sexual activity, leading to better erectile function.

If your erectile dysfunction persists even after quitting weed, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. Often, healthcare professionals prescribe medications like generic Cialis, Levitra, or Viagra to help manage the condition.

Marijuana And Other Medications

Marijuana can interfere with some medications, including:

• Medication used to treat blood sugar: Cannabis affects blood sugar levels. Use weed with caution if you take medicines that affect blood sugar, such as insulin.
• Medications that cause sleepiness: Cannabis can cause extreme drowsiness when taken with medicines such as diazepam and lorazepam.
• Blood pressure medications: Cannabis should be taken cautiously while using blood pressure medicines like beta-blockers or diuretics.

Conclusion

Does weed cause erectile dysfunction? Research is still ongoing, but there is a link between the two, according to some studies.

If you’re someone who uses marijuana and is suffering from ED, it’s worth stopping to see if symptoms improve.

Always consult a doctor regarding your health, especially with ED. They can help you discover the cause of the condition.