Cannabis and Birth Control is one of the topics that people tend to ask more questions about. In case you consume cannabis along with the hormones for contraception, you may want to find out whether cannabis will make your birth control ineffective or cause some side effects.
To say simply, there are currently no clinical studies proving that the use of cannabis leads to birth control failure. However, there is little research on this interaction of cannabis with the contraceptives available.
Cannabis can interfere with hormone signaling, and its products can interfere with some drugs in the way of enzyme activity. Thus, the interaction of Cannabis and Birth Control needs to be considered, especially if you consume high doses of cannabis or take other drugs along with it.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Cannabis and Birth Control
- Does Cannabis Reduce the Effectiveness of Birth Control?
- THC, CBD, and Medication Metabolism
- Cannabis and Birth Control with Hormonal Methods
- Cannabis and Non-Hormonal Contraceptives
- Can Cannabis Influence the Side Effects of Birth Control?
- Cannabis, Mood, and Anxiety
- Cannabis and Reproductive Hormones
- Key Points on Safety When Using Cannabis and Birth Control
- When Should You Talk To A Healthcare Provider?
- The Bottom Line
Understanding Cannabis and Birth Control
While speaking of Cannabis and Birth Control, one needs to pay attention to the type of contraception that is being taken
The list of hormonal contraception includes:
- Oral birth control pills
- Hormonal IUDs
- Birth control implants
- Vaginal rings
- Birth control patches
- Birth Control injections
They consist of such hormones as estrogen, progestin, or their combination.
As for non-hormonal methods, they could be the following:
- Copper IUDs
- Condoms
- Diaphragms
- Fertility awareness methods
Each of them works in its own way, which means that the list of possible issues could be different.
Does Cannabis Reduce the Effectiveness of Birth Control?
In any case, there is no proof at this time that cannabis negatively impacts the effectiveness of hormonal contraception.
That does not mean, however, that all possible interactions have already been explored thoroughly.
Cannabinoids such as THC and CBD may interfere with the activity of enzymes responsible for metabolizing medications in the body. The metabolism of various drugs is mediated by many different enzymes. According to available research, THC and CBD can interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes, such as CYP3A4.
Contraceptive hormones can be processed through the same metabolic pathways, involving the activity of these enzymes.
The crucial point to remember here is that potential or theoretical interference does not necessarily lead to a decrease in contraceptive effectiveness in clinical practice. Further research is needed to explore how specific cannabis preparations, dosages, and modes of intake may impact the effectiveness of contraceptives.
And this is another key component of the conversation about Cannabis and Birth Control.
THC, CBD, and Medication Metabolism
THC and CBD have different impacts on the body.
THC is the main psychoactive compound found in cannabis, while CBD is not psychoactive.
Both compounds can affect drug metabolism, especially when taken in large amounts. According to the clinical review of cannabinoid drug interactions, it is essential to take into account several factors, such as the cannabinoid itself, the amount of it taken, the route of administration, and other medications.
Moreover, the FDA states that CBD can interact with other medications. It is crucial to consider it when using prescription CBD medications and CBD medications in large amounts.
In case you are taking high-dose CBD oils, concentrates, or other CBD products and are on prescription drugs, you should inform your healthcare provider about it.
Cannabis and Birth Control with Hormonal Methods
Properly taken, hormonal birth control is very effective.
According to the CDC, there are three different types of combined hormonal contraceptives: pills, patches, and rings. The typical use of such means may be compromised due to missed doses or incorrect use.
One of the things a person taking cannabis may need to think about is probably not related to any interactions between chemical substances.
Intoxication may influence the routine behavior.
For instance, a person who feels strong effects from THC intake is more likely to:
- Skip a dose of the medication
- Take the medication at an incorrect time
- Fail to follow the schedule of taking the contraceptive
- Not be able to follow the instructions
It is not that cannabis has made this method become ineffective. However, the consistency of its use plays a crucial role.
People can use various tools to help them stay on track.
Cannabis and Non-Hormonal Contraceptives
Non-hormonal forms of birth control do not rely on either estrogen or progesterone.
As a result, concerns about the influence of cannabinoids on hormone metabolism will be less applicable to birth control measures like copper IUD.
Barrier contraceptives, such as condoms, also act irrespective of the metabolism of cannabinoids.
Nevertheless, impairment could potentially impact decisions. An impaired person may be less inclined to utilize the barrier contraceptives appropriately.
The condom has another feature that is absent in the case of hormonal contraceptives – it protects from sexually transmitted infections when used properly and regularly.
Can Cannabis Influence the Side Effects of Birth Control?
Sometimes cannabis is used to help treat conditions like pain, nausea, stress, and problems sleeping.
But cannabis cannot necessarily be assumed to be a medically proven way to relieve common side effects of birth control.
The research into cannabis to treat gynecological pain and other symptoms still is not sufficient. ACOG has said more high-quality research is needed in order to understand the safety and efficacy of cannabis products to treat gynecological pain.
A person might feel relieved from symptoms, like cramps and pain. Personal experiences can be quite different.
Cannabis can also cause side effects such as:
- Fatigue
- Reduced coordination
- Memory problems
- Anxiety
- Mood changes
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dry mouth
THC-rich products can cause increased impairment and make anxiety worse for some people.
For this reason, Cannabis and Birth Control must be considered on a case-by-case basis and not simply assumed to be an effective way to treat all possible symptoms.
Cannabis, Mood, and Anxiety
Changes in one’s mood may sometimes be brought up by those who are on hormonal contraceptives.
Mood changes can also be experienced through the use of cannabis, although they are not necessarily predictable.
While some people are left feeling relaxed after using cannabis, others find themselves more anxious or having other psychological problems that make them feel uneasy. Dose, frequency, potency, and sensitivity can all play a role.
The benefits of CBD have also been examined in relation to several conditions, such as anxiety, among others. But there is not enough research supporting the idea of using over-the-counter CBD products for any problem.
If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, and mood changes due to your contraceptive, you should definitely talk to a medical specialist rather than try to handle things on your own with cannabis.
Cannabis and Reproductive Hormones
Cannabis could affect the reproductive system independent of birth control use.
Some scientific studies have shown that cannabis might act on the endocannabinoid system within the body, which plays a role in the reproductive process. Research has been conducted regarding the effects of cannabinoids on hormone signals, ovulation, the menstrual cycle, and fertility.
It is important to note that such results should not be considered as proof that cannabis can serve as a form of contraception.
Cannabis is not a means of pregnancy prevention.
Menstrual cycle changes or ovulation changes cannot be trusted to prevent pregnancy.
For anyone looking to prevent pregnancy, the right form of birth control must still be used.
Key Points on Safety When Using Cannabis and Birth Control
Further recommendations for caution can be made by a healthcare provider in case of:
- Using large amounts of THC or CBD
- Taking multiple prescription drugs
- Liver disease
- Cardiovascular issues
- Feeling extremely anxious after the use of cannabis
- Using prescription CBD or other cannabinoid drugs
- Planning to conceive
Inhalation of cannabis might have its own specific health implications unrelated to the prevention of conception.
Pregnancy should not occur while using cannabis and it is advised by ACOG to discuss cannabis use with your obstetric or healthcare provider when planning pregnancy or during pregnancy.
When Should You Talk To A Healthcare Provider?
You should consider talking to a healthcare provider about Cannabis and Birth Control if you are a regular cannabis user and you:
- Recently switched your birth control methods
- Use high doses of CBD
- Consume other prescription medicines
- Have some unusual side effects
- Have changes in your menstruation cycle
- Worry about getting pregnant
Discussing cannabis usage will allow for giving correct information about the potential interactions of medicine.
The Bottom Line
Cannabis and Birth Control can be safely used in combination in many circumstances, but there is little scientific research on their interactions.
Currently, there is no scientific evidence that cannabis has any effect on the efficacy of hormonal contraceptives. THC and CBD may have an effect on how medication metabolizes in the body, especially if they are taken in large quantities. More research is required to determine the clinical implications of these interactions.
Cannabis consumption may also affect memory, coordination, mood, and decision-making, which can interfere with contraception that needs constant use, such as taking daily birth control pills.
It is best to take your contraceptive as prescribed by your doctor and to consult a health care professional about the regular or high consumption of cannabis.
FAQ
Is cannabis a form of birth control?
There are no strong pieces of clinical evidence that indicate that cannabis cancels the effect of birth control. However, studies concerning particular connections between cannabis and contraceptives are still rare.
Does CBD interact with birth control pills?
CBD interacts with certain enzymes responsible for metabolism of medicines and can change their effectiveness if taken at high doses. This depends on specific medicine and conditions of its consumption.
Can cannabis affect hormones?
Studies prove that interaction between cannabinoid receptors and hormone or reproductive signaling system exists. The nature of such an interaction depends on many factors, including frequency and intensity of cannabis intake.
Is cannabis a form of birth control?
Absolutely not. Cannabis can’t be considered as a contraceptive means of any kind.
Should I inform my doctor about cannabis usage?
Yes. Informing your physician about cannabis consumption will be helpful in order to prevent medication interactions.