Why do people use cannabis when pregnant?

There are many reasons why someone might use cannabis during pregnancy, including:²

• To manage pregnancy symptoms
• Treating nausea and vomiting caused by morning sickness
• Reducing stress from daily life and pregnancy
• Coping with anxiety and depression
• Prior use of cannabis for mental health, sleeping problems, period cramps, chronic pain, migraines, etc.
• Not being aware of the possible risks it poses to the baby
• Having a partner or household member who uses cannabis
• Using as a means of harm reduction instead of alcohol or other drugs that can pose greater risks to the developing baby

What are the risks to the baby?

Many factors can impact a baby’s health when it comes to their birth parent’s cannabis use, including the amount that is used; frequency of use; its potency or strength; the way it’s consumed (e.g., smoked, vaped, eaten); and whether it’s used consistently throughout pregnancy.

While research results on how cannabis use during pregnancy impacts the baby are mixed, some studies raise the following concerns: ³

• Lower birth weight
• Pre-term birth
• Higher chance of needing neonatal intensive care (NICU)
• Temporary withdrawal-like symptoms in the weeks after birth, including more startles and tremors, sensitivity to light, and longer periods of crying
• Possible effects on brain development that can cause attention, learning, social, or behavioral problems later in childhood
• Potential increased risk of future substance use

What are the risks to the pregnant person?

Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome: With regular use, some people can develop Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS). CHS causes cycles of stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting that can last for 24 to 48 hours. It can be temporarily helped by taking hot showers or baths, but the only known way to treat CHS is to stop using cannabis entirely.⁵

This can be a particular concern for pregnant people, when nausea and vomiting are already common symptoms. Using cannabis might worsen these symptoms and make it difficult to properly diagnose them.⁶

Anemia: Using cannabis when pregnant can increase the risk of anemia.⁷ Anemia during pregnancy can cause shortness of breath, exhaustion, dizziness, trouble concentrating, and a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Left untreated, it can lead to complications during and after birth.⁸

Child Protective Services Involvement: For some pregnant people, especially people of color, there may be a concern about criminal justice involvement or reports to child welfare services, even in states where cannabis use is legal.

If you’re pregnant or postpartum and have questions about CPS involvement, our guide can help you understand what to expect and think through next steps.

Cannabis Use Disorder: Continued use of cannabis can cause some people to develop cannabis use disorder, the medical term for problematic marijuana use and addiction. This can make it difficult for someone to stop using cannabis.

Can I use cannabis while breastfeeding?

Regardless of how a person uses cannabis (e.g., smoked, vaped or edibles), small amounts of THC – the active ingredient in marijuana that produces a “high” – passes through breast milk. It can be detected up to 6 weeks after use.⁹

Studies on the impact of nursing while using marijuana on a baby’s development are conflicting, though some research indicates that it may be harmful for motor development. Given the lack of data and uncertainty about infant safety, healthcare providers recommend stopping cannabis use.¹⁰

Is secondhand smoke dangerous?

Yes. Second- and third-hand smoke can also be a concern both for a pregnant person and their baby. Secondhand smoke can potentially have effects similar to consuming cannabis directly.¹¹ There is limited research on the impact of thirdhand cannabis smoke (potential chemical residue left on indoor surfaces like carpets and couches), but exposure to it may be harmful as well.¹²

Secondhand cannabis smoke can also be harmful to babies after birth. A baby can breathe in the smoke, ingesting the chemicals, and experience the effects of THC. Babies may also grab objects where cannabis residue has settled to put in their mouths. These objects may carry toxins that can negatively impact babies’ health.

It’s always safest to avoid cannabis smoke as much as possible while pregnant and while parenting a baby. And if you’re a loved one of a pregnant person, it’s best not to smoke around them.

Are CBD products safe?

There is not enough research to know if CBD is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Additionally, CBD products are often not well-regulated and may still contain THC or other unknown chemicals. For this reason, experts recommend avoiding CBD products during this time.¹³

How can I safely treat my pregnancy symptoms?

Pregnancy symptoms can be uncomfortable and sometimes difficult to bear. The good news is that there are safe pregnancy remedies to help you feel better while keeping your baby healthy, too. Here are a few examples:

For morning sickness:

• Ginger and lemon
• Eating small, frequent meals
• Staying hydrated
• Prescription medications for nausea (e.g., Zofran)

For pregnancy-related pain (backaches, cramps, headaches)

• Warm showers or heating pads
• Gentle stretching
• Light movement, such as walking
• Safe pain medications (e.g., acetaminophen)

For anxiety:

• Deep breathing
• Individual counseling or support groups
• Prenatal yoga or light exercise
• Anxiety medications (e.g., SSRIs or SNRIs)

For insomnia:

• Maintaining consistent bedtime routine
• Getting sunlight during the day
• Using pillows for support

Always check with your doctor prior to using medications to treat nausea, pain, and anxiety. With proper management, there are ways to deal with these symptoms safely.

Check out this article for more tips on safe ways to manage common pregnancy symptoms.

What can families do to be supportive?

If your loved one is pregnant or breastfeeding and using cannabis to manage their pain and stress, there are things you can do to help.

• Understand that your loved one may see marijuana as helpful to relieve symptoms and cope.
• Gently share your concerns, without judgement, about the potential risks to their and the baby’s health.
• Encourage your loved one to discuss their use with a trusted healthcare provider.
• Help them think of strategies to reduce the risks of cannabis use. Our guide on harm reduction and marijuana may help.
• Offer emotional support and help to alleviate their stress.

The bottom line

There is no known safe level of marijuana use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. THC, the chemical in marijuana that causes a “high,” can reach the baby during pregnancy and pass through breast milk after birth. While some people use cannabis to cope with pregnancy symptoms, research shows possible risks to both the baby and the pregnant person. Talking with a healthcare provider can help you find safer ways to manage symptoms.

If you are pregnant or postpartum and concerned about your substance use, it can be hard to know where to turn for help. Whether you need advice or even just a listening ear, our trained and caring specialists are here to provide you with free, confidential support.

The BabySTEPs Helpline offers a safe space for anyone who is pregnant or parenting a baby to talk, ask questions, and get guidance.

Text BABY to 55753 to connect with us, or visit our website for more information.