Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Reproduction and Fertility: Where We Stand

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2021

Authors

Fonseca, BM (Author) Other; Rebelo, I (Author) FFUP

Journal

Title: Reproductive Sciences

Vol. 29

Pages: 2429-2439

ISSN: 1933-7191

Publisher: SAGE

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 0 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00T-Y75

DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00588-1

Abstract (EN): Although cannabis use is increasing in general population, their prevalence among young adults is remarkably high. In recent years, their medical use gained a renewed interest. However, it can underline the reputation of cannabis being a harmless drug. Between cannabinoids, uniquely found on the cannabis plant, Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the well-studied compound. It is responsible for the psychoactive effects via central cannabinoid receptors. Nevertheless, cannabinoids interact with other chemical signalling systems such as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. THC indirectly decreases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion by the hypothalamus. The consequences are diverse, and several key hormones are affected. THC disturbs important reproductive events like folliculogenesis, ovulation and sperm maturation and function. Although generally accepted that cannabinoid consumption impacts male and female fertility, prevailing evidence remains largely on pre-clinical studies. Here, we introduce cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, and we review the most prominent clinical evidence about cannabis consumption in reproductive potential and teratogenicity.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 11