Study cannabis changes shape of sperm

Fertility study: Cannabis smoking can damage fertility

06/06/2014

Cannabis smoking can negatively affect fertility. This resulted in a large-scale British fertility study with 2,249 sperm donors. Thus, men who had used cannabis three months before semen donation have above average often less than four percent normal sperm. The researchers therefore advise young men who want to father children to stop cannabis use in good time.

With sperm it depends on form and size
In the study, researchers from Sheffield and Manchester universities investigated how certain lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol and cannabis affect male fertility. As it turns out, especially the consumption of cannabis changes the external appearance of the sperm. In under-30-year-old men who had used cannabis three months prior to their semen donation, less than four percent of sperm were normally built.

In addition, semen samples given in the summer also showed many off-standard spermatozoa. As the researchers in the journal „Human Reproduction“ Reported sperm quality was worse, especially in the months of June, July and August than in the cooler season. The men had at least six days before the semen sample no intercourse, but improved the sperm quality.

In sperm, shape and size are crucial for overcoming and fertilizing the egg in the female body. This had already been shown by previous studies. In addition, poorer sperm are also worse swimmers. Because of their shape, they may be less effective.

Cannabis appears to be one of the major risk factors for changes in the shape of sperm
Other lifestyle factors, such as smoking cigarettes or consuming alcohol, have little effect on the outer shape of the sperm, according to the researchers. But these habits may have another negative effect on the sperm, according to a joint statement from the universities.

„Our knowledge of the factors that influence the size and shape of sperm is very limited, yet faced with the diagnosis of poor sperm morphology, many men are concerned about trying to figure out what factors in their lifestyle might be the cause“, explained Dr. Allan Pacey, skin author of the study. „So it is reassuring to know that there are very few identifiable risks, although our data suggest that cannabis consumers should be advised to refrain from using the herb if they plan to start a family.“ Prof. Nicola Cherry from the University of Alberta pointed out older study results: „In addition, we know from previous research that even men who are exposed to paint thinner or lead often have smaller, malformed sperm. "