Cannabis & Conception: The Science & Stories

🎙️ Season 2: Episode 1

Cannabis & Conception: The Science & Stories

🧠 Episode Summary

In the Season 2 premiere, Laura and Brandis dive deep into one of the most frequently asked questions in fertility care — how does marijuana use affect fertility, conception, and pregnancy? From breaking down the science of how THC interacts with reproductive hormones to sharing real-life stories of patients who’ve seen the impact firsthand, this candid conversation gets to the truth about cannabis and conception, without judgment, stigma, or shame.

The hosts discuss:

• How marijuana impacts both male and female fertility

• The effects of THC on ovulation, sperm production, and hormone regulation

• The link between cannabis use and lower IVF success rates

• What current research shows about THC exposure in pregnancy and child development

• Why being honest with your fertility provider matters and how to have that conversation

Whether you’re using cannabis medicinally, recreationally, or considering conception in the near future, this episode arms you with the knowledge to make informed choices and optimize your fertility health.

🔬 Key Topics Covered

• The Science: How THC disrupts FSH, LH, and testosterone production and what that means for egg and sperm quality.

• Male Fertility: Why men who stop THC use 3 months before conception often see dramatic sperm improvements.

• Female Fertility: How marijuana can delay ovulation, affect menstrual regularity, and reduce egg quantity and quality.

• IVF Outcomes: Studies linking THC use to 25% fewer eggs retrieved and higher miscarriage risks.

• Pregnancy & Beyond: The risks of THC exposure to the placenta, fetal growth, and long-term child development.

• Real Talk: Why “my friend smoked and got pregnant fine” isn’t the full story and how fertility outcomes are more complex than we think.

• Empowerment, Not Judgment: Creating an open dialogue between patients and providers to improve outcomes and support all fertility journeys.

💬 Memorable Moments

• “The sperm you see today actually started developing 90 days ago.”

• “Even short-term THC use can affect sperm count and egg quality.”

• “Just because you have regular cycles doesn’t mean you’re ovulating normally.”

• “We’re not asking to judge; we’re asking so we can help you optimize your chances.”

• “THC doesn’t just affect conception; it can affect a child’s development for years after birth.”

🩺 Takeaway Message

Fertility is complex, and while THC may be natural, its impact on reproductive health is very real. Knowledge and transparency are key. The goal isn’t judgment — it’s empowerment, understanding, and helping you take the best possible steps toward your family-building goals.

💕 Episode Resources

• Learn more about CNY Fertility and our comprehensive fertility and reproductive immunology programs.

• Explore research on marijuana use and fertility via ASRM, NIH, and Fertility & Sterility Journal.

• Listen to past episodes of Fertile-ish for related topics like preconception testing, sperm health, and reproductive hormones.

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

Listen to Fertile-ish on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
Follow along on Instagram @fertileishpodcast for behind-the-scenes clips, fertility tips, and TMI Tuesday stories.