How CBD Affects Fertility: Everything You Need To Know

Did you know that CBD directly interacts with important systems in the body that regulate processes like fertility and pregnancy? 

Today we are talking about CBD and how it can both help and potentially hinder fertility. This is a must-read article for those looking to conceive while taking CBD. 

*The opinions and information expressed in this article are not responsible for your medical care, oversight, or treatment, and DO NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE. We are not responsible for your decision to use CBD and any positive or negatives consequences that result from it. You understand and acknowledge that you should always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions or concerns you may have about CBD and its effect on your health.* 

Understanding CBD 

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many phytocompounds found in hemp and cannabis plants. It’s known for its strong therapeutic effects that don’t trigger a high like it’s sister compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). You can get more at Otheremedies.

CBD has lent its name to two cannabis products. 

There’s full spectrum CBD, which includes CBD along with the other phytocompounds found in hemp varieties of cannabis as they don’t cause a high like marijuana varieties. 

Both forms have their pros and cons, and most people prefer one over the other. 

When it comes to fertility, one isn’t inherently better or worst than the other. Full spectrum CBD does have traces of THC, and there some research to show THC can negatively affect fertility. So be advised if you’re taking large doses of full spectrum CBD. 

How CBD May Directly Impact Women’s Fertility 

While there is limited research on CBD’s impact on pregnancy, by studying one of the main ways CBD works, we discovered that CBD boosts anandamide levels in the body. 

CBD does this by temporarily stopping enzymes called FAAH from breaking down and recycling anandamide. 

Both high and low levels of anandamide play key roles at different times in the chances of successfully becoming pregnant. 

If CBD boosts anandamide levels at the wrong time, it could, in theory, weaken chances of conception. However, if taken at the time when anandamide levels need to be high, CBD could increase the chances of conceiving. 

To understand more, let’s take a closer look at anandamide. 

How Anandamide Plays A Key Role In Women’s Fertility 

Anandamide is a neurotransmitter that attaches to and activates receptors located on cells. When a receptor is activated, it releases chemical messages that tell the cells to carry out a certain function. 

High levels of anandamide are needed during ovulation because it helps cells carry out the process of the ovaries that releases a mature egg down into the fallopian tube. 

However, after this happens, anandamide levels naturally drop to much lower levels as high levels can hinder a fertilized egg from successfully attaching to the uterine wall.

There are no studies on CBD that look into if it can cause levels of anandamide to raise so significantly, that it would upset the natural transition from high to low levels. 

However, if you’re struggling to conceive and taking CBD, you may wish to discontinue use after you’ve started ovulating. 

By the same token, if you’re suffering from an endocannabinoid (anandamide) deficiency, you may want to take CBD to improve ovulation. 

Ways CBD May Improve Fertility In Both Sexes 

There are a couple of other ways CBD can help improve fertility. However, this time it’s indirectly, but it can help both sexes, and you won’t have to worry about them hindering your chances. 

CBD Can Improve Sleep

Research shows that poor sleep and sleep disorders can lower both men and women’s fertility. 

After starting CBD, many people report that they are sleeping better throughout the night and waking up feeling more well rested. 

CBD helps regulate the production of cortisol and lowers high levels that make us feel threatened. Cortisol is called the stress hormone, and it’s been directly linked to preventing the onset of sleep and hindering REM. 

Who among us hasn’t tossed and turned in bed trying to turn our minds off, but instead kept thinking of things that make us anxious? 

CBD Can Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety  

Stress, anxiety, and depression have all been linked to poor fertility in both men and women. It can affect the production of hormones that aid in regulating ovulation and sperm production. 

Alongside, anandamide, CBD can interact with serotonin 5-HT1A receptors that play a critical role in aggression, anxiety, appetite, cognition, learning, memory, mood, nausea, and sleep. 

These receptors are the culprit behind the term “the runner’s high” and explain why exercising can make us feel good after a workout. Because of this, and the fact it’s also found in chocolate, anandamide has earned the term “the bliss molecule”. 

Anxiety is one of the top reasons people use CBD. 

Safest Way To Consume CBD When Trying

There are a variety of ways to consume CBD from smoking to vaping to oils and even gummies. 

You’ll want to avoid smoking if you’re trying to get pregnant as it can hinder your chances. Besides that, you won’t have to worry about any of the other methods. Most people prefer oil because you can hold it under your tongue for better absorption and faster effects.  

Conclusion

The biggest thing you should take away from this article is that while CBD appears safe during conception and pregnancy, there is not a lot of research that has looked into this subject. 

As such, use caution and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. 

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