(WXYZ) — As more and more states legalize recreational marijuana use, a new study is suggesting there may be a link to early miscarriages. And surprisingly, it’s men’s reproductive health that seems to be the issue. Today we’re talking about how frequent pot use by males may be having unexpected consequences.
Question: How can men who are smoking marijuana be putting women at risk for miscarriage? What’s the connection?
I know it sounds like a far reach, but studies are showing marijuana smoking may be lowering sperm count and reducing the active movement of sperm. In other words making sperm sluggish. Also, a new study out of Boston is indicating that marijuana may be causing DNA damage to sperm. Meaning that while it may be healthy enough to fertilize an egg, it’s also more likely to result in pregnancy loss in the first eight weeks.
Question: Are these effects on sperm permanent? What if a guy has already been smoking marijuana, does that mean he’ll never become a father?
More study is definitely needed. But it’s unlikely the damage will be permanent since the active ingredient in marijuana, THC, doesn’t stay in our systems forever. Everybody’s different, but it has been detected in body fluids for as much as 30 days after the last use. In some cases it’s been found in hair samples several months later.
Question: What’s your advice to potential new fathers to make sure they have the best chance at creating a healthy pregnancy?
I would suggest abstaining from marijuana use or at least cutting back, while you’re trying to conceive. The new study showed the risk for early miscarriage doubled if the guy was indulging at least once a week, even when the woman was not using it at all. Since research is showing the chemicals in pot do have a direct effect on male reproductive health; I think it’s important to take a good hard look at how much you’re using and make adjustments accordingly.
