The human reproductive system is comprised of sexual organs that facilitate procreation and sexual pleasure. Sexual health and behavior in both men and women are affected by lifestyle, environmental factors and genetic influences. For example sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV, affects the immune system and inhibit the ability of the affected individual to fight opportunistic infections. In men, the reproductive system includes the testes, penis, prostate and seminal vesicles. In women, the reproductive system includes the vagina, uterus and ovaries.

​

Diseases of the reproductive system are directly affected by the endocannabinoid system. Studies have unmasked the pain controlling effects of cannabinoid (CB) receptors expressed in the bladder and are currently exploring how to utilize phytocannabinoids like CBD to treat bladder pain and dysfunction disorders. Additionally, researchers report the presence of CB receptors in the erogenous zones of the reproductive organs, suggesting that the endocannabinoid system plays an important role in sexual health. 

​

Healthcare professionals incorporating Cannabis into their medical practice, whether prescribing medical marijuana or CBD derived from hemp, are reassured by the many potential theoretical mechanistic pathways by which Cannabis has shown possibilities for benefit in basic science research as a potentially effective adjunctive treatment option. These include analgesic, antiemetic, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, relaxant and anxiolytic properties. 

​

• Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine. Urinary incontinence is a common issue that affects many people, especially those affected by debilitating chronic conditions. A symptom of urinary incontinence is a persistent urge to urinate. Studies exploring the effects of phytocannabinoids on bladder control suggest CBD may significantly reduce urge incontinence episodes and improve bladder control from baseline. 

​

• Endometriosis occurs when bits of the tissue that line the uterus (endometrium) grow on other pelvic organs, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bowel and tissues lining the pelvis. The hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle affect the misplaced endometrial tissue, causing the area to become inflamed and painful. Rarely, endometriosis can progress to other organs of the body, including the lungs. Even with hormonal and surgical intervention, endometriosis causes chronic pain and disability for millions of affected women. Endometriosis is often accompanied by mood fluctuations, which has lead scientists to explore the use of CBD to help manage premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which is a severe form of PMS that may be associated with endometriosis. The endocannabinoid system is thought to regulate hormonal imbalances in the reproductive system. In addition to potentially regulating hormonal imbalances, the potential anti-inflammatory and pain relieving effects of CBD may be effective in the adjunctive management of inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis. 

​

• Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is defined as persistent difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection sufficient to have sex. Causes are usually medical but can also be psychological. Some healthcare professionals are exploring the theory that CBD could help relax the blood vessels and promote blood flow. Better blood flow to the penis can relieve ED and promote longer-lasting erections. A small study published in the journal JCI Insight suggests CBD helps to reduce blood pressure. For those affected by ED as a result of psychological issues, CBD may also offer relief by reducing anxiety associated with the condition.

​​​

​