A small but revealing NYU study, covered by the Washington Post in 2016, compared sexual experiences on alcohol versus marijuana. Researchers interviewed 24 heterosexual adults (50% female, all HIV-negative) who had recently used cannabis before sex. The findings highlight clear differences between the two substances.

Participants observed that alcohol made it easier to meet potential partners and lowered inhibitions in group settings. However, it also correlated with poorer choices: atypical partners, riskier behavior, and notably higher rates of post-sex regret. One participant after another linked booze to that classic “what was I thinking?” feeling. Marijuana, by contrast, produced longer, more intense orgasms for many, with sensations often described as heightened or “magnified.” Users reported feeling more in control, less regretful, and more attuned to their bodies.

Authors of other studies on sex and marijuana have expressed considerably less enthusiasm. Cannabis use increases risk of paranoia, over-sedation, and/or poor situational awareness. Some people find they have difficulty communicating. Co-use of both alcohol and marijuana amplifies risks, as does heavy dosing.

According to THIS recent article in VICE, some people think imbibing any amount of mind-altering substance takes away your ability to consent.  Legal precedent and modern dating culture suggest otherwise. Plenty of people routinely get high before having sex with no problems at all. But just because a little marijuana is usually OK, doesn’t mean there is no need to be careful. Having sex with an impaired person is always against the law. If someone is truly impaired by marijuana and you have sex with them, it’s rape.

How to make sure no-one is too impaired by marijuana to consent to sex

Know Your Dose. Edibles hit harder and later than you expect.

Avoid Mixing. Alcohol + cannabis multiplies impairment. If you’re doing both, cut the doses significantly.

Watch for Red Flags. If someone can’t walk straight, remember basic details, or form full sentences, that’s not a great sign. Paranoia, sudden silence, and confusion all warrant a pause at the very least.

Even if everything is going well, keep checking in. Slurred words, giggling without responding to questions, or zoning out = stop. “Still good?” should get a clear, coherent yes every time things escalate.

Hard Stop Rule. Anyone who falls asleep or becomes non-responsive is done. No exceptions.