As marijuana legalization spreads across states, the conversation about its safety, especially during pregnancy, becomes more pertinent. The scientific community has been relatively quiet on the specific effects of marijuana on developing babies during pregnancy, a notable gap given the extensive research on other substances like alcohol. However, emerging studies and growing public discussion are shedding light on this critical topic.
One point of concern is the increasing trend of marijuana use among pregnant women. In 2002, only 2.3% of pregnant women reported using marijuana. By 2014, this figure had risen to 3.84%, a two-thirds increase. This rise is alarming, considering the potency of marijuana has also increased, with the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content quadrupling over the years. Cannabis use disorder during pregnancy is becoming a significant concern.
In California and across the United States, cannabis use during pregnancy is mirroring this upward trend. About 8% of women, or 1 in 12, used cannabis during pregnancy in 2020, up from 3% in 2002. Despite the increase, there are mounting concerns about the potential risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy. Pregnancy and Pot: Healthy Alternative or Bad for Baby?
Studies have shown that children whose mothers smoked marijuana during pregnancy may experience decreased attention span, brain function, and memory. However, there is an element of doubt, as the full extent of these effects and their long-term implications are not yet fully understood. The potential risks are higher if marijuana is smoked in small, enclosed areas or places with poor ventilation. Smoking pot while pregnant — will it harm the baby later on?
Harvard Health advises against smoking cannabis, which can inflame the lungs, suggesting alternative methods like tinctures, edibles, topicals, or dry herb vaporizers for those who choose to use cannabis. It’s also recommended not to drive for at least four hours after using cannabis. If you use cannabis, do it safely – Harvard Health.
For women, chronic marijuana use may significantly impact menstrual cycles and reproductive hormones, possibly affecting conception. This is according to a study monitoring the reproductive systems of healthy female nonhuman primates. Chronic marijuana use alters female reproductive system may impact.
Ultimately, the safest choice for pregnant and nursing mothers is to avoid recreational drugs, including marijuana. Adjusting lifestyle habits during pregnancy and nursing is crucial for the long-term health of babies. Why pregnant and nursing mothers shouldn’t smoke marijuana – Harvard Health.
While there is still much to learn about the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy, the trend is clear: as more states legalize marijuana, its use among pregnant women is on the rise, raising concerns about the potential impact on developing babies.
