You may have heard varying information regarding marijuana use during pregnancy. What is the truth regarding the safety and effects of using marijuana while pregnant? Research indicates that marijuana is not a safe way to treat pregnancy-related symptoms. Rather, marijuana use during pregnancy poses significant health risks for both the woman and her baby.
Marijuana’s effects on a developing baby:
- Disrupted or abnormal brain development before birth
- Higher chance of premature birth
- Low birth weight
- Greater risk of stillbirth
Marijuana’s effects on a pregnant woman:
- Permanent lung damage due to toxic chemicals
- Impaired critical thinking; increases risk of injury, especially while driving
- Dizziness that increases risk of falls and injury
- Decreased oxygen in the body that can lead to difficulty breathing
If you are pregnant and experiencing nausea, vomiting, and other pregnancy-related symptoms, you are not alone. Your body is incredible, sustaining a new life. If you are seeking relief for pregnancy-related symptoms, contact your physician for safe symptom management. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use marijuana in any form, as it is not safe for them or their babies. This includes CBD oils and edible marijuana products. Secondhand marijuana smoke is also dangerous, as it contains toxic chemicals that are harmful to adults and children. Talk to your doctor if you need help quitting marijuana.
If you want verification regarding a potential pregnancy, schedule a free pregnancy test and consultation at Alpha Center today, where you can meet with a trained staff member in a confidential environment. Call 605-361-3500 or visit alphacenter.org to schedule an appointment. You matter to us, and you are not alone.
Sources: https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/24625/the-health-effects-of-cannabis-and-cannabinoids-the-current-state https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2018-1889