Why Sex Feels So Damn Good When You’re High
Why Sex Feels So Creative and Good While High
Last updated: December 19th, 2025
You are not alone if you've ever felt the desire to light up before sex. In fact, studies have shown that over 58% of people experience an increase in sexual desire when on Cannabis. So, move over oysters, wine, and chocolate, as we learn more about this leafy green aphrodisiac which has been used since the beginning of time to promote benefits during sexual activity.
The "pleasure hormone," AKA Dopamine, plays a significant part in both sex drive and the brain's pleasure centers. The dopaminergic neurons in the brain can receive these neurotransmitters and create the feeling of "horniness," to put it bluntly. The THC in Cannabis works with these same neurons, activating dopamine receptors in the brain. The science doesn't lie— it makes sense why you may feel a heightened sense of sexual desire.
Does cannabis reduce anxiety that blocks arousal?
Being that Cannabis changes the way you think, your mental state while high is bound to impact your sexual feelings. To even begin to feel 'turned on,' you've got to be mentally invested in tapping into your desires. One of these essential factors that Cannabis enhances is creativity– this may lead to new ideas and explorations while in bed.
Creativity is a key factor in sex that is overlooked by many. One of the main ways people keep their partners interested while in relationships is by switching things up in the bedroom, and cannabis-induced creative ideas are certainly one way to get there.
Cannabis has also been found to decrease anxiety and inhibitions, which helps to manage these feelings during sexual interactions. This newfound sense of freedom allows people to be present, enjoy the moment more, and scrutinize themselves less.
Can THC or CBN change orgasm intensity?
For starters, there's definitely a link between Cannabis and the female libido. You can't physically enjoy sex unless you're 'revved up' for it in the first place, right? However, Cannabis doesn't just enhance physical sensations for women– a 2019 study determined usage of Cannabis in relation to sex resulted in reports of increased sensation, pleasure, and intensity of orgasm for both men and women.
Cannabis enhances all of your senses– since sex is a peak experience in physical sensations, heightened feelings of being touched, awareness, taste, and smell can do wonders for your physical connection with your partner or your own body. As a vasodilator, Cannabis increases blood flow. This affects the physical sensation of orgasm, riding that high wave all the way to the 'finish' line.
What newer research says
Recent work points to real benefits for some women who struggle to climax. Several studies and reviews report higher orgasm frequency, easier climax, and better satisfaction when cannabis is used before sex, particularly among women with existing difficulties.
Population-level data still shows a positive association between cannabis use and sexual frequency. It’s correlation—not proof of cause—but the signal is consistent across large U.S. samples.
Broader reviews echo what many people report anecdotally: cannabis can boost desire and orgasm quality, especially when anxiety or pain is part of the picture.
A quick, balanced note: heavy, long-term use may affect certain male fertility markers (motility, hormones). If family planning is on your mind, keep dose and frequency modest and talk to a professional (Fertility and Sterility review).
What’s the best timing for edibles before sex?
Breathe it in: Deep breath in, and out. Smoking or vaping cannabis is typically the shortest-lasting way to ingest and usually the quickest onset. It can also be a fun pre-foreplay activity to smoke with your partner; if you're feeling fancy about it, you can find ways to smoke more collaboratively. You can try blowing your inhales from your mouth to your partner's– after all, good foreplay starts before you even get into the bedroom.
Swallow it: Edibles are a great smoking alternative that creates a longer-lasting high. With all that's available out there, even the act of taking a bite of some sweet cannabis goodness can be sexy– edibles can be purchased in the form of chocolates, cookies, drinks, and even cooking oils and butter, which you can use to make your own recipes. However, the effects take longer to kick in, so maybe have your edibles with dinner and your partner for dessert. Or skip sugar altogether with our tested favorite effects-based gel caps like Huxley’s Sex Gel Caps—a consistent dose, no flavor, easy to repeat.
A quick, practical dose note: If you’re new to edibles, 2–5 mg THC is a gentle start. Many land at 5–10 mg. Higher tolerances may prefer 10–20+ mg. Give edibles 45–120 minutes to work, avoid stacking with alcohol, and adjust slowly over a few sessions.
Let it get under your skin: Literally. Well, okay, not too literally. Topical or suppository cannabis is a great way to relax the muscles and loosen up. You might not feel the same 'high' effects as other methods of ingesting, but that doesn't rule it out as a way to unwind. Besides, it provides a great opportunity to massage some oils or lotions onto your partner's skin– and if you're a person with a vagina, topicals have been known to loosen up the muscles for sexual activity.
Where to buy our favorite Sex Gummies legally Online
Prefer a measured dose over smoking? Huxley’s SEX Gummies and Huxley’s Gel Caps offer clear, repeatable dosing.
– Shop online where legal: Huxleys Exclusive Online Retailer
21+ only. Obey local laws. Start low and go slow.
Consent and Sobriety
It goes without saying to make sure your partner is on board with everything you have planned, under the influence of Cannabis or not. However, the same rules apply to Cannabis as to alcohol– if someone's judgment is impaired or they are otherwise intoxicated, they cannot consent to sex. To ensure that all parties are willing participants, have a conversation about consent before ingesting any cannabis, remember that it's okay if feelings change, and be open and accepting of any changes during or before sexual activity. Many people have different relationships with Cannabis, and that's okay. What works for some people doesn't work for all, so be mindful of your dosage, and remember to always respect your partner.
Sex while high can bring amazing new experiences to your experiences in the bedroom (or any room). Both formerly considered taboo subjects, sex, and Cannabis, have come a long way in popular culture. If you're curious about Cannabis or sex while high, don't let fear stop you from experimenting. Always practice consent and respect, and enjoy new sexual awakenings.
FAQs
How long before sex should I take a THC edible?
Most people feel edibles in 45–120 minutes depending on metabolism and what you’ve eaten. If timing matters, plan ahead, start low, and avoid stacking with alcohol.
Is THC or CBN better for staying asleep after?
THC can help you wind down. CBN is often used alongside THC when the goal is staying asleep. Many people prefer a THC + CBN blend at a low, consistent dose.
Can cannabis make me too anxious or groggy?
It can if the dose is too high. Drop to a lower range, give it more time to come on, and try a calmer profile. If foggy in the morning, reduce the dose the next time.
