SPIRIT - Women, Cannabis, and Sexual Wellness: Exploring Sacred Connections

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the intersection of cannabis use and sexual wellness, particularly among women seeking holistic approaches to enhance intimacy, pleasure, and connection. Cannabis, with its diverse array of therapeutic properties and potential aphrodisiac effects, holds promise as a tool for exploring sensuality, deepening intimacy, and cultivating a more fulfilling sexual experience. In this exploration, we delve into the sacred connections between women, cannabis, and sex, examining the potential benefits, challenges, and considerations for incorporating cannabis into sexual practices.

1. Cannabis and Sensual Awakening:

Cannabis Strains: Certain strains of cannabis, particularly those high in THC or CBD, have been reported to enhance sensory perception, heighten arousal, and promote relaxation—all of which can contribute to a more sensual and pleasurable sexual experience (Craft et al., 2013).

Aphrodisiac Effects: Cannabis has long been regarded as a natural aphrodisiac, capable of igniting desire, intensifying sensations, and fostering emotional intimacy. The plant's psychoactive compounds can stimulate the release of dopamine and serotonin, neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and mood regulation, creating a heightened state of arousal (Gorzalka & Dang, 2012).

2. Cannabis and Intimate Connection:

Enhanced Communication: For some women, cannabis can serve as a catalyst for deeper emotional and verbal communication with partners, fostering intimacy, empathy, and understanding. By lowering inhibitions and reducing anxiety, cannabis may facilitate more open and honest conversations about desires, boundaries, and fantasies (Zeitzen et al., 2020).

Increased Sensitivity: Cannabis can heighten tactile sensitivity and bodily awareness, allowing women to explore their erogenous zones more fully and experience a greater range of sensations during sexual play. This heightened sensitivity can enhance the pleasure of touch, intimacy, and connection with a partner (Smith et al., 2021).

3. Cannabis and Sexual Healing:

Pain Relief: For women experiencing sexual pain or discomfort, cannabis may offer relief through its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Topical cannabis products, such as lubricants or massage oils infused with cannabinoids, can soothe muscle tension, reduce inflammation, and enhance comfort during intimacy (Brotto et al., 2020).

Trauma Release: Some women use cannabis as a tool for healing past trauma or negative experiences related to sexuality. The plant's anxiolytic effects and capacity to induce a relaxed, meditative state can facilitate emotional processing, allowing women to release tension, fear, or shame around sex (Weber et al., 2019).

4. Considerations and Precautions:

Dosage and Sensitivity: Women may vary in their sensitivity to cannabis, with some individuals experiencing heightened effects at lower doses. It's essential to start with a low dosage and gradually titrate upwards to assess individual tolerance and response, particularly when using cannabis for sexual purposes (Briere et al., 2018).

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Depending on geographical location, the legal status of cannabis may vary, impacting accessibility, safety, and regulatory oversight. It's essential to research local laws and regulations regarding cannabis use, purchase, and cultivation, and to obtain products from reputable sources (Hendriks et al., 2020).

Conclusion: Women's exploration of cannabis and sexuality offers a multifaceted journey of sensual awakening, intimate connection, and sexual healing. By approaching cannabis with intention, mindfulness, and respect for individual preferences and boundaries, women can harness the plant's potential to enhance pleasure, deepen intimacy, and cultivate a more fulfilling sexual experience.

References:

• Briere, F. N., Rohner, S., Schuster, R., Pellegrini, E., & Delsignore, A. (2018). Cannabinoid concentrations in plasma and urine after smoking cannabidiol joints. Forensic Science International, 291, 62-67.

• Brotto, L. A., Chivers, M. L., Millman, R. D., & Albert, A. (2020). Cannabis and Female Sexual Health. In Cannabis and Medicine: An Evidence-Based Approach (pp. 205-225). Springer, Cham.

• Craft, R. M., Marusich, J. A., & Wiley, J. L. (2013). Sex differences in cannabinoid pharmacology: A reflection of differences in the endocannabinoid system?. Life Sciences, 92(8-9), 476-481.

• Gorzalka, B. B., & Dang, S. S. (2012). Endocannabinoids and sexual behavior in female rats: involvement of the posterodorsal medial amygdala and differential participation of the estrous cycle. Hormones and Behavior, 62(4), 517-525.

• Hendriks, V., Griekspoor, C., & Ceccato, C. (2020). Regulation of medicinal cannabis use in Europe. European Journal of Criminology, 17(6), 693-711.

• Smith, M. L., Cichewicz, A. B., & Michael, T. L. (2021). Cannabis, sexual health, and human sexual behavior. Sexual Medicine Reviews, 9(1), 22-34.

• Weber, S. A., Turna, J., & Szeto, A. H. (2019). An exploratory examination of cannabis use during sexual activity and its association with sexual functioning in women. Sexual Medicine, 7(1), 66-74.

• Zeitzen, A. K., Strickler, J., & Lounsbury, D. W. (2020). Cannabis Use and Sexual Behavior Among College Students: The Impact of Reciprocity Beliefs and Condom Co-Use Efficacy. The Journal of Sex Research, 57(7), 832-843.