Risks of medical cannabis use in pregnancy
Nowadays, more and more women are looking for alternative approaches to treatment during pregnancy, and one option that is gaining popularity is medical cannabis. In our article, we will focus on the risks associated with the use of medical cannabis during pregnancy.
The risks associated with the use of cannabis in pregnancy and after
Effects of cannabis on fetal development
One of the main risks is the effect of cannabis on fetal neurodevelopment. A substance called THC, which is found in cannabis, can cross the placenta and affect brain development in the fetus. This can lead to various problems such as reduced cognitive function, attention deficit disorder and hyperactivity in the child.
Another risk is affecting the growth and weight of the fetus. Cannabis can affect the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetal bloodstream, which can lead to inadequate fetal growth and low birth weight. This can increase the risk during childbirth and long-term health problems in the newborn.
In addition, cannabis use during pregnancy can increase the risk of behavioural and emotional problems in the child later in life. Studies suggest that children exposed to cannabis use during pregnancy have a higher risk of mood disorders, anxiety and aggression compared to children not impaired by cannabis.
Risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy
Cannabis can also affect the fetal cardiovascular system. This can be dangerous to the health of the fetus and increases the risk of complications in pregnancy.
It should also be mentioned that cannabis can have psychoactive effects that can affect the mental health of a pregnant woman.
Risks associated with cannabis use after pregnancy
The first risk is the effect of cannabis on maternal care. Some studies suggest that cannabis use may affect maternal psyche and behaviour. Problems with perception, memory and motivation can occur, which can negatively affect the mother's ability to care for her newborn. The consequence can be reduced quality of care and can cause dangerous situations.
Another risk is the possibility of transferring psychoactive substances from mother to infant during breastfeeding. THC in cannabis can pass into breast milk and affect the neurological development of the baby. This can have negative effects on cognitive abilities, behaviour and other aspects of the child's development.
It is also important to consider the risk of cannabis dependence. Addiction can have negative impacts on the overall quality of life of the mother and the family.
Possible risk of cognitive and memory impairment in newborns
Experts at the University of Washington have tested the effect of cannabis on cognitive function in mice. Newborn mice of mothers who were exposed to potent cannabis had cognitive problems after birth . A disruption in glutamate production may be behind this impairment. The test dose given to pregnant mice would be equivalent to one joint per day in human terms.
One other study revealed that 22% of teenage mothers in Caliornia routinely use marijuana. 69% of dispensaries in the state of Colorado recommend cannabis for treating morning sickness during pregnancy.
It is important to add that medical cannabis in the vast majority of cases poses no risk to adults, however in thecase of unborn children, the story is quite different. Previous studies have repeatedly shown that newborns exposed to cannabis had lower birth weights in 50% of cases.
More recent studies presented during theSociety for Neuroscienceconference in San Diego, point to possible serious disruptions in the brain development of newborns exposed to cannabis.
YasminHurd, head of the Addiction Institute and a faculty member at the University's Icahn School of Medicine, explains the situation.
"In recent people's view of cannabis as a drug has changed so much that there has been a complete relaxation and fearlessness. Part of the whole thing, of course, is the advancing legalization, which is fine. However, just because cannabis does not harm adults does not mean that it does not harm the unborn child."
Safe alternatives for cannabis use in pregnancy
Consult a doctor:
- The first step is to seek professional help and consult a doctor about your health problems.
- Doctors can provide information about alternative treatment options and help choose a treatment approach for your specific case.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the effective drug-free therapies that can help pregnant women manage various health difficulties.
- CBT focuses on changing thought patterns and behaviors, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Physical therapy and relaxation techniques:
- Physical therapies such as massage or exercise can be safe alternatives to treat pain or discomfort during pregnancy.
- Relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing or yoga can also help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Alternative medicines and herbal remedies:
- There are several alternative medicines and herbal preparations that can be safely associated with pregnancy.
- However, it is important to discuss their use with a doctor or herbal medicine specialist to minimize the risk of side effects.
Support and therapeutic groups:
- Therapy groups and support networks that share experiences with other pregnant women can be helpful in pregnancy.
- Joint support and information sharing can help manage the stress and emotional challenges of pregnancy.
The risks associated with cannabis use in pregnancy are an important and debated topic. Studies suggest that consuming cannabis containing THC during pregnancy can have a negative impact on fetal and neonatal development. For this reason, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid using cannabis containing THC during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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This article is for informational purposes and does not represent medical advice. Always consult your doctor or specialist before starting any treatment or taking medication during pregnancy.