Much has been said and written about the potential benefits of using CBD. While still highly regulated and illegal in many parts of the world, more people are embracing it to address a multitude of physical and mental health issues.
One of the more curious areas of study involving CBD is its impact on fertility. There is no shortage of natural and holistic treatments that are recommended to improve the ability to conceive.
So, where does CBD for fertility fit into this?
Does CBD affect fertility?
The short answer is yes and no. There is not enough research that would indicate CBD can positively or negatively impact human fertility. The consensus is that CBD can provide indirect support to anyone looking to conceive.
For example, it supports the overall health and well-being needed to boost fertility.
CBD and fertility is a controversial topic. This chemical compound has seemingly found its way into many wellness products designed to alleviate pain, anxiety, insomnia, etc.
It was only a matter of time until “natural” products for fertility also made it into the spotlight. CBD joins the long list of holistic treatments to aid with conception.
Whether or not you are undergoing fertility treatments, you might be looking for ways to boost your fertility. Some might have taken food supplements, while others have switched to a healthy diet and lifestyle.
You might have even considered CBD products to increase the chances of conceiving.
Remember that most of the CBD products on the market are considered supplements. Therefore, there are no proper regulations and little oversight in implementing these laws. You need to be extra cautious about the possible interactions with other supplements.
It is worth noting that CBD products (including ones labeled as fertility-boosting products) contain two compounds: CBD and THC. The latter is the most active compound that gives that feeling of being “high” when consuming these products.
Meanwhile, CBD does not have psychoactive effects and has been shown to have potential to provide relief from many health conditions.
There is little evidence to back up the claims that CBD can improve fertility in humans. One element is responsible for the link between CBD and fertility: naturally-occurring hormones known as endocannabinoids. These hormones are a recent discovery, and scientists are still studying them.
One thing is for sure: these hormones play a vital role in the human body's critical functions, such as sleeping, pain response, and reproductive health.
But that’s not all: there is more scientific data that supports the claims that CBD can impact the reproductive system.
Does CBD affect female fertility?
Infertility problems are common. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 10% of the female population from15 to 44 has difficulty getting or staying pregnant. 10% is a staggering statistic representing approximately 6 million women globally.
When a female has difficulty conceiving, doctors perform various tests to determine the cause of infertility.
While infertility isn’t an issue of the female reproductive system alone, this is the best place to start assessing why you fail to conceive. CBD is one of the alternative therapies that women who have been unable to conceive explore to get pregnant.
Research claims that endocannabinoids may improve ovarian function in women and promote follicle maturation. These are critical factors that can aid the successful fertilization of an egg by the male sperm.
The similarity in the chemical structure of CBD with endocannabinoids is responsible for the successful fertilization of the egg. Again, this is an exciting potential for women clinging to hope for a successful conception.
Does CBD affect male fertility?
The male factor in infertility is gaining more focus in the study of infertility problems among couples trying to conceive. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 35% of infertility problems are down to the male.
About 20% of infertility problems are a combination of male and female factors.
If you have trouble conceiving, it might be best to stay away from cannabis. This 2019 study explains why: it can decrease your sperm count.
The use of CBD may impact the overall sperm health among males. According to findings from the same research cited above, CBD may reduce sperm count, lower sperm concentration, and cause abnormalities in sperm motility and morphology.
The most significant effect would be the reduced sperm viability, which significantly lowers the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg.
A few research studies have been conducted on animals using CBD and cannabis. Based on the result of these tests on the animals, CBD resulted in testicular atrophy and reduced sexual function.
However, this same test has not been replicated on humans, so these findings are inconclusive in terms of human fertility.
As far as testosterone levels are concerned, the results from the available research studies are contrary to the findings on sperm health. A 2017 study showed increased testosterone levels among men who used cannabis compared to those who did not consume it or consumed it at lower doses.
This study involved more than 2,000 male participants with an average testosterone count of 4.27ng/ml in those belonging to the highest group.
While there might be contradictory research findings on the impact of CBD on testosterone levels in human males, the consensus is that this chemical compound can create a balancing effect on testosterone.
Some cannabinoids might have caused reduced testosterone production while also limiting the breakdown of this hormone in the liver.
Moreover, research findings show that this cannabis compound may lower the production of prolactin and cortisol in the male body. These are two types of hormones produced by the body under stress (physical or mental). It’s no secret that CBD has long been studied for its stress-reducing properties.
When males use CBD to reduce stress, it may also help the body regulate its stress hormone production and maintain a healthy testosterone level.
The picture is getting more apparent now as to why CBD for male infertility is becoming popular. Whether it is to reduce stress hormones or balance testosterone levels, it brings hope to males struggling with fertility.
On the other hand, it pays to understand the possible effects of using CBD on sperm health, which also affects fertility.
CBD and female hormones
Hormonal imbalance is the leading cause of infertility among women. PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and anovulation are just a few examples of reproductive health disorders resulting from hormonal imbalance in women.
Various factors such as diet and lifestyle can cause a hormonal imbalance in women. Hormones are produced by the endocrine system and delivered to the tissues all over the body. They send signals to the tissues to perform their main functions.
Without hormones, the systems in the body are unable to perform their essential functions.
Since lifestyle and diet cause hormonal imbalance in women, it’s essential to look at how CBD plays into this. Specifically, can it restore hormones to a healthy balance?
The endocannabinoid system is closely linked with the human body's endocrine system. The use of CBD can stimulate the endocannabinoid system. However, scientists must do more research to determine the extent of its impact and its effects.
There are different types of cannabinoids, and the type of chemical compound used can determine the effects on the female hormones.
Does CBD help with female hormones?
CBD is carving its niche in wellness products for women as the chemical compound offers a cure for common health conditions associated with women’s health.
A study looked into the effects of CBD in regulating the secretion of the stress hormones cortisol. The ability of CBD to regulate hormone production is an indicator that it can be beneficial in restoring balance to hormones. Hemp-based CBD products are a good source of omega fatty acids and gamma linoleic acids that can aid in hormone regulation.
Hormones are vital to performing essential body functions. Aside from lifestyle factors, your hormones can fluctuate depending on your age and life stage. If there is an imbalance, it can affect your health, including the ability to conceive.
More studies are needed to support the claims that CBD can regulate hormone production. However, the properties of CBD products that promote stress relief, quality sleep, and a boost in sex drive can aid when trying to conceive.
A healthy body and mind are crucial for anyone trying to get pregnant. It is best to start with this.
CBD when trying to conceive
While most research studies on CBD and fertility are in the early stages, there is enough evidence to support its impact on women’s health. From regulating hormones to fighting stress, these are critical factors that improve the fertility rate in women.
The use of products such as our Premuim CBD Drops can give you instant relief when you are feeling stressed or anxious about work or your personal life. They are easy to take and can be light enough to carry around wherever you go.
You can also get your hands on our Premium CBD Gummies. These are excellent treats that you can snack on during the day for that calming effect. These products are easy to take since they are available in easy-to-chew bite sizes. It also makes dosing easy, and you can take as many bites as you need.
Whatever method you are taking, it is vital to know the best time of day to take CBD based on the desired effects.
The best way to guarantee this is to ensure that you get your products from a quality supplier or a trusted vendor for authenticity.
Is CBD safe if you're trying to get pregnant?
As long as you get your doctor’s approval, CBD and any cannabinoid products are safe if you are trying to get pregnant. If you are taking any medications, it is advisable to consult with your doctor first to avoid any contraindications.
You must ensure that your products are free from THC, a psychoactive compound. Some studies show how THC can affect ovulation and implantation.
Women who suspect they might already be pregnant should avoid consuming any THC-filled products as they can cause miscarriage.
Is CBD oil safe when trying to get pregnant?
CBD oil is one of many products available for couples trying to get pregnant. It’s worth remembering that CBD has a promising array of potential health benefits. Most of these benefits are science-backed despite being limited.
Whether your health issues have led to your infertility or the inability to conceive has caused you stress or anxiety, CBD oil can be of benefit. Regular use of CBD oil may indirectly help you conceive, especially if you prioritize your health and well-being.
Knowing the potential link between CBD and conception, exercising caution when adding these products to your diet and lifestyle is best. While there are studies available that support the claims of CBD aiding in conception, they are limited in number, and not all of them are verifiable.
The best thing to do is consult with your physician before ingesting or using any CBD-based products if you are trying to conceive. You need to get your doctor's approval first to ensure that it is safe and won't cause any adverse effects on your pregnancy if you succeed at getting pregnant.
