Growing Uncertainty Among Pregnant Women About Marijuana Risks Despite Rising Use

Recent research from the University of Florida highlights a concerning trend: many pregnant women are unsure whether consuming marijuana or products containing cannabidiol (CBD) is safe during pregnancy, even as the use of these substances appears to be increasing. The study indicates that women are turning to marijuana and CBD to help alleviate morning sickness, anxiety, and insomnia, without being fully aware of the potential risks involved.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends against the use of marijuana and CBD during pregnancy due to possible adverse effects on fetal development. Existing studies associate marijuana use during pregnancy with abnormal neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants. While human data on CBD safety is limited, experts remain cautious, noting that CBD is not intoxicating but could still pose risks to fetal health.

This study underscores the necessity for healthcare providers to better educate women about the potential dangers of cannabis use during pregnancy. Many women assume that legalization signifies safety; however, marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Florida, even though medical marijuana is permitted.

Dr. Kay Roussos-Ross, a senior author of the study, emphasized that despite legal status, substances like alcohol and tobacco are also legal yet harmful during pregnancy, suggesting that legality does not equate to safety. She pointed out that there is accumulating evidence linking prenatal marijuana use to increased psychiatric and behavioral issues in children, but more research is needed to fully understand these risks.

Quantifying the rise in marijuana and CBD consumption among pregnant women is challenging. A 2021 federal survey reported that approximately 7.2% of pregnant women used marijuana. The UF Health study, published in Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, surveyed 261 women—including pregnant, breastfeeding, and recent mothers—and found that nearly one in six pregnant women had used marijuana or CBD products, such as vapes, tinctures, or topical ointments.

The findings revealed a disconnect: many women who used these substances were unsure about their safety. About 40% of pregnant women were uncertain about the risks of occasional marijuana use during pregnancy, with over half uncertain about CBD risks. Interestingly, current use of marijuana was lower among pregnant women (around 36%) compared to women with children (about 65%), possibly reflecting increased caution.

Experts also expressed concern over the widespread availability of CBD, which is often perceived as harmless. While pharmaceutical-grade CBD has FDA approval for specific pediatric epilepsy treatments, much of the CBD available in stores or gas stations differs significantly from these medical products.

This research highlights the importance of educational efforts to inform women about the potential dangers of cannabis use during pregnancy and urges both healthcare professionals and policymakers to promote caution with these products.