Cannabis can damage fertility, say scientists

Marijuana smokers were today warned that the drug could have a devastating effect on their fertility.

Scientists have discovered that men who use the substance regularly produce far less sperm than those who do not.

They say the drug also causes sperm to become hyperactive and "burn out" - drastically reducing the chances of pregnancy. And they warned that women who smoke the drug are also jeopardising their chances of having a family.

The latest fears emerged at an international fertility conference in America and were unveiled by researchers from the State University of New York.

The team examined semen samples from men who reported smoking marijuana about four times a week for an average of five years.

Tests revealed that the men produced less semen. In a further blow, the sperm they produced was far too active - potentially leading to "early burn-out" and reduced fertility.

For women, the danger is that particles of the drug remain in their reproductive systems and can damage sperm.

The research team concluded: "Marijuana smokers appear to have impaired fertility potential. Men who smoke the substance have reduced sperm volume and total sperm number. "

Women who regularly smoke marijuana have been found to have high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) - the moodaltering substance in cannabis - in their reproductive systems.

The researchers warn: "This can affect sperm in the cervix, uterus and oviduct."

In a separate development, it emerged that drinking strong coffee can have a positive effect on sperm.

Researchers from Brazil found no evidence that men who drink more than six cups of coffee a day have a poorer quality - or quantity - of sperm. They say the substance appears to boost sperm "motility" - or movement - offering fertility benefits.

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