Despite the potential risks, a growing number of pregnant women are choosing to continue using marijuana during pregnancy. Recent data shows that cannabis is the most commonly used illegal drug among pregnant women in the United States, with usage rates doubling between 2002 and 2017. In some regions, up to 25% of pregnant women report marijuana use during pregnancy, according to a study published in the journal JAMA.
However, emerging evidence suggests that using cannabis during pregnancy can have long-lasting complications for both the mother and the baby. These complications may include developmental delays, behavioral disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, and even stillbirth. The researchers of the study noted that there is still a significant lack of knowledge regarding the effects of cannabis use on perinatal health outcomes.
Studies have linked in-utero cannabis exposure to adverse health effects such as low birth weight, neonatal intensive care unit admissions, and preterm birth. This is likely due to THC, the active substance in marijuana that can cross the placenta and affect the fetal brain as early as 14 weeks gestation, as explained by Obstetrician and Gynecologist Dr. Staci Tanouye in a TikTok video.
Furthermore, states where recreational marijuana is legal, like California, Colorado, and Oregon, tend to have higher rates of cannabis use among pregnant women. A recent survey in northern California found that 70% of self-identified cannabis users reported consuming it daily during pregnancy. These women cited relief from symptoms like nausea, insomnia, pain, and stress as the main reasons for their marijuana use.
Despite warnings from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), many pregnant women continue to use cannabis. Some claim that their healthcare providers even suggested cannabis use to manage symptoms and prevent weight loss during pregnancy.
Mothers who have used cannabis during pregnancy share their experiences on platforms like TikTok, where there is a significant audience interested in this topic. Some claim that their children have shown no ill effects from the cannabis exposure, while others argue that cannabis has been a safer alternative to conventional medications.
However, research suggests otherwise. Studies have found that using cannabis in the first trimester of pregnancy can lead to adverse birth effects like poor fetal growth, stillbirth, and an increased risk of pregnancy-related high blood pressure. Children exposed to cannabis prenatally may experience long-term developmental issues, including higher rates of ADHD, learning disabilities, and emotional problems.
It is important to note that studying the effects of marijuana use during pregnancy can be challenging due to various confounding factors. Nevertheless, most health agencies recommend against cannabis use during pregnancy, emphasizing the potential risks to both mother and baby.
In conclusion, while some pregnant women choose to continue using marijuana to alleviate symptoms, the evidence suggests that it may pose significant risks to the health and development of both mother and baby. It is essential for healthcare providers to inform and educate pregnant women about the potential dangers associated with cannabis use during pregnancy.
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