new cannabis research in time for 420
The annual day of celebration for cannabis culture is upon us — April 20th or "420” as it has become to be known to insiders and the general public at large. And while smoking weed is not my thing, I do have an interest in alternative pathways for women to explore their sexuality and empower their personal pleasure. One such way is through cannabis.
I wrote an opinion piece in December of last year discussing how cannabis can enhance sexual pleasure from an anecdotal point of view. As more states legalize marijuana for medical and recreational use, the stigma surrounding it has begun to wane. As a result, research can be conducted more openly to improve our understanding of the impact cannabis can have on our physical and emotional wellbeing, as well as our sexual health. Most importantly, research that is backed by science and facts.
A recent article from Veriheal, “Can Marijuana Enhance Sex and Orgasms? Here’s What the Latest Science Shows,” covers new studies and has some encouraging conclusions. The post’s author, Lemetria Whitehurst, a cannabis nurse educator and writer, explores how cannabis use can enhance sexual pleasure and satisfaction. For women, the data could have an empowering impact on intimacy, sexual health, and pleasure.
a few key takeaways
1/ Solving for the orgasm gap.
Marijuana seems to make female orgasms easier to obtain, more intense, and longer lasting. Over 70% of surveyed adults found increased desire when consuming cannabis before intercourse.
2/ Potential treatment for sexual dysfunction in women.
Cannabis could have applications in treating dyspareunia and vaginismus. Regular use has shown increased libido and relaxation, reduction of pain and anxiety, and increased sexual pleasure and functioning.
3/ Better orgasms!
Of the 811 surveyed adults from Amanda Moser’s study, 62.5% reported strengthened orgasms from masturbation after cannabis use.
Make the most of your day.
So, whether partnered, unpartnered, or multi-partnered, pleasure is an important part of our wellbeing. It can be an empowering act of body sovereignty, intimacy, and self care. I am encouraged and intrigued to see where the new research between cannabis and sexual health will lead and what it could mean for an equitable future for women.
