Research shows that approximately one in twenty American women have reported using marijuana during pregnancy. As marijuana becomes more accepted and legalized, more women are using it to alleviate pregnancy-related pain and nausea. However, it is important to note that marijuana use during pregnancy can have harmful effects on the unborn child.
Concerns with Marijuana Use During Pregnancy
Health professionals advise against smoking marijuana during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal neurodevelopment and the adverse effects of smoking on both the mother and the fetus. Studies have shown a clear link between marijuana use during pregnancy and negative outcomes, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the drug during this critical time.
Association between Marijuana Use and Autism
A significant study found that using marijuana while pregnant may increase the risk of the child developing autism. The research, based on data from births in Ontario, Canada, revealed a 1.5 times higher likelihood of autism in children born to mothers who used cannabis during pregnancy. This study sheds light on the potential risks associated with marijuana use during pregnancy.
Link to Stillbirths
Another study from 2013 indicated that using marijuana during pregnancy could increase the risk of stillbirths. While the effects of tobacco could not be entirely separated from marijuana use in the study, the association between marijuana and stillbirth risk was significant. Pregnant women and healthcare providers are urged to be cautious about cannabis use during pregnancy to prevent such adverse outcomes.
Potential Risks of Marijuana Use for Your Baby
Many expecting mothers turn to marijuana for pain relief, nausea, and stress reduction during pregnancy. However, research suggests that introducing cannabis to the developing fetus could impact brain development, especially during the sensitive stages of pregnancy. More studies are needed to understand the effects of marijuana use on infants during breastfeeding as well.
For now, pregnant women are advised to avoid marijuana for medicinal purposes and seek safer alternatives. Open communication with healthcare providers is crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby during pregnancy.
