With the legalization and increased use of cannabis, its impact on health is becoming a more relevant topic. According to new research, the main psychoactive substance in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), directly affects female fertility\u2014it changes the egg cell maturation process and its genetic structure.<\/p>\n
Given that a woman’s immature egg cells (oocytes) have a unique sensitivity and their number is limited, the potential risk of cannabis use cannot be ignored. Therefore, the results of this research are of utmost importance for reproductive medicine and public health, especially for women who are planning to get pregnant.<\/p>\n
Previously conducted studies were mainly focused on male sperm or pregnancy outcomes, which is why the direct effect of THC on oocytes has remained unstudied until now. New research has filled this gap: scientists found THC and its metabolites in the follicular fluid of women undergoing IVF (in vitro fertilization), which confirms its direct effect on egg cells.<\/p>\n
After this, changes in gene activity and chromosomes were assessed. It was found that clinically relevant concentrations of THC changed the activity of genes responsible for proper chromosome segregation, immune reactions, and cellular signaling. The quality of embryos obtained through IVF was also studied within the framework of the research.<\/p>\n
Most importantly, the number of chromosomal anomalies increased and spindle formation was disrupted in egg cells exposed to THC. This fibrous structure ensures the proper arrangement of chromosomes, which is crucial for the viability of the embryo. This is also confirmed by the fact that women who used cannabis had a much lower number of genetically healthy embryos during IVF, which directly reduces the chance of getting pregnant.<\/p>\n
Key Findings:<\/strong><\/p>\n THC in Follicular Fluid: THC and its metabolites were found in the follicular fluid of 6% of patients undergoing IVF, despite being advised to abstain from cannabis use. This fact suggests that many users do not disclose this information and the substance directly enters the egg cell environment.<\/p>\n Oocyte Maturation: Exposure to THC accelerated the in vitro maturation time, which indicates a premature resumption of meiosis.<\/p>\n Changes in Gene Expression: THC changed the activity of more than 300 genes. These genes control such important processes as cellular signaling, inflammation, and embryo implantation.<\/p>\n Chromosomal Disorders: Exposure to THC increased the risk of aneuploidy (an abnormal number of chromosomes) by 9%, which threatens the viability of the embryo and can cause a genetic disease such as Down syndrome.<\/p>\n Spindle Defects: The rate of abnormal formation of the meiotic spindle (the structure that correctly distributes chromosomes) doubled under the influence of THC.<\/p>\n The research results also show molecular disruptions, such as altered cannabinoid receptor signaling and inflammatory processes, which are crucial for early embryo development.<\/p>\n The harmful effect of cannabis at the egg cell level highlights that cannabis use must be discussed during fertility consultations. All women who are undergoing IVF or are planning to get pregnant should be informed about these risks.<\/p>\n Future research should determine how the timing, dose, and form of cannabis use affect fertility, as well as whether this harmful effect is passed on to the offspring. This requires long-term and large-scale studies.<\/p>\n For now, this research is the clearest evidence that cannabis is not harmless to female fertility. Therefore, in an era of increasing use, more caution and informed decision-making are needed to protect reproductive potential.<\/p>\n