By: Olivia Walters

There’s a lot of rumor going around about marijuana (cannabis) and sex. Advice columns and sex therapists are starting to openly discuss the erotic benefits of using weed before getting down and dirty.

In the cannabis community alone, advocates can’t seem to stop talking about their secret weapon for hot foreplay, bedroom fantasies, and fist-clenching orgasms. 

Stoned sex is drawing a lot of media attention, but is there any research to back it up?

Marijuana and Orgasms

Long gone are the days of feeling the need to be secretive about marijuana. Thanks to sweeping legalization across the United States, people have more access and opportunity than ever before to enjoy marijuana both recreationally and medicinally. 

Researchers are rising to the occasion to understand how marijuana enhances sexual pleasure. Using self-reported surveys, researchers have some insights into how it all works.

According to findings published in Sexual Medicine, women say that cannabis increases sex drive and improves orgasms. 

There are some caveats to this research method, however, as survey results alone don’t explain the scientific link behind sex and cannabis.

Few studies have assessed the biological mechanisms underlying sexual pleasure and cannabis use, so the majority of what we know comes from anecdotal evidence.

Not that that’s a bad thing—it just doesn’t tell the whole story about what happens to the birds and the bees when cannabis is in the mix. 

One theory says that cannabis activates receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system monitors everyday processes such as sleep, mood, appetite, and sexual functioning.

In fact, the body already produces cannabis-like compounds called endocannabinoids, which help keep systems in balance (aka homeostasis).

So, when you use cannabis before sex, the therapeutic compounds in cannabis may drive up arousal and pleasure because of ECS stimulation. 

Some people also experience a heightened sense of touch after consuming cannabis. The skin has ECS receptors that help release a hormone called oxytocin, otherwise known as the “love hormone.”

It’s the one that makes you horny when your partner touches you. The act of touching itself makes you horny, but with cannabis, you could feel extra sensitive and turned on. 

Weed and Sex

Additional evidence suggests that cannabis has an indirect influence on sexual pleasure by lowering anxiety and pain and increasing lubrication.

Certain conditions, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids, cause women to experience significant discomfort during sex, which may trigger excessive worry and lead to performance anxiety.

Using THC or CBD, on the other hand, could alleviate some of the physical and emotional pressure. 

One survey asked women with endometriosis how they managed their symptoms. A combination of cannabis, heating pads, and dietary changes were the highest reported strategies for managing this painful condition. 

Excessive worry, a symptom of many anxiety disorders, could also affect your sex life. Some of us are “head cases” and have trouble leaving our thoughts outside of the bedroom, especially in heightened states of distress.

During sex, the only thing that should be on your mind is pleasure. Cannabis, specifically CBD/hemp, has known anti-anxiety properties which could help you “turn off” anxiety.

Because cannabis does encourage you to lower your guard, remember that boundaries and consent are still just as important during stoned sex. Give yourself the time and space you need to feel comfortable with your sexuality with cannabis.

No need to rush into things, especially since being naked and getting high with a partner can make you feel extra vulnerable. Instead, why not test the waters with some solo-play first? 

Marijuana and Masturbation 

Masturbation is a healthy activity that allows you to become better acquainted with your body and desires.

Being able to make yourself feel good gives you a sense of empowerment and boosts confidence when you want to make an intimate connection with a partner. 

What tools do you need to accomplish this? Some people keep it simple with their hands, maybe a little lube.

If you’re looking to turn up the intensity, we have the recipe: cannabis and thrusting vibrators. 

Separately, they each have their benefits: cannabis heightens touch sensations, Velvet Thrusters do the deed without a cord.

Photo: Velvet Thruster

But together, the combination offers multiple rewards (and hopefully orgasms). 

The ins and outs of marijuana and masturbation are simple. You’ll need:

Your favorite cannabis

Tinctures, edibles, joints, etc. However you prefer to consume, keep in mind that microdosing (partaking in small quantities) may be better suited for sex than heavy doses.

A little goes a long way, plus microdosing could help you focus rather than mentally drift off to sleep. 

A trusty lube

 Water, silicone, or oil-based—what do you prefer? It might take some experimentation to find the lube for you, but it’s worth the time.

Lube is a handy tool to have when the moving parts don’t get moist enough. Penetration can also be more enjoyable with lube. 

Sex toys

 Need we say more? Sex toys offer vibrations that a simple pair of hands can’t compete with. Plus, the Thruster Mini pulsates and penetrates in the palm of your hand.

Photo: Velvet Thruster

Unlike large sex machines that take up space, make a lot of noise, and require an outlet, this thrusting vibrator draws all the power without a cord.

Play with six different speeds and feel free to let your freak fly with the suction cup base. Oh, and one more thing—the Thruster Mini fires 125 strokes per minute. 

Other Thruster models come in bigger, more powerful shapes, so you can shop around and find the size that works for you. The fun thing about cannabis and sex is the opportunity for customization.

Photo: Velvet Thruster

You’ll have to play around until you find the mix-and-match that sends you over the edge. 

To sum it up

Even though science has a long way to go, results from self-reported surveys provide clues about the gratifying, magical powers of the cannabis plant.

Experimenting with cannabis before sex may open you up to try different pleasure-seeking paths (hello couples masturbation!)

Treat cannabis like your sexy tour guide and let it help you find all the right spots—you might be pleasantly surprised. 

Olivia Walters is a writer who focuses on cannabis culture and lifestyle.