Cannabis and Pregnancy
Marijuana can affect the health of your baby. Like alcohol, marijuana is not recommended if you are pregnant, caring for an infant, or planning to get pregnant soon.
Marijuana use can effect your baby at different stages.
Before Pregnancy
- May disrupt the menstrual cycle
- May reduce the number of eggs retrieved and successfully fertilized during in vitro fertilization.
- May experience a lower libido
- May produce less seminal fluid
- May have a lower sperm count
- May have fewer well-functioning sperm
Each of these outcomes may adversely affect fertility.
During Pregnancy
More research is needed to better understand how marijuana may affect you and your baby during pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns against marijuana use during pregnancy because:
- THC will reach your baby through your bloodstream and through the placenta;
- It may increase your baby’s risk of problems with attention, memory, problem- solving, and behavior over the course of his or her lifetime, making it harder for your child to do well in school.
If you are using marijuana and are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor.
If you are pregnant and want to stop using marijuana, call or visit the MA Substance Use Helpline at (800) 327-5050.
Breastfeeding
There is a lot we do not know yet about marijuana and breastfeeding. Here is what we do know:
- Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both the baby and the mother.
- THC in marijuana gets into breast milk and may affect your baby.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics says mothers who are breastfeeding their babies should not use marijuana.
For more information, visit the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
Secondhand Smoke and Your Baby
Any kind of smoke, including marijuana smoke, can make it harder for your baby to breathe and may increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Safety Tip
If marijuana becomes a problem, seek treatment.
Visit the Massachusetts Substance Abuse Helpline or call 800-327-5050. The Helpline is the only statewide, public resource for finding substance use treatment and recovery services. Helpline services are free and confidential. Caring, trained Specialists will help you understand the treatment system and your options.
Keep cannabis products locked away, and out of reach of children and pets.
Remember: Getting high could impair your decision-making.
Check in with your doctor if you are using marijuana and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Driving with cannabis in your vehicle? Always keep it in a closed container locked in your glove box or trunk.
Start low and go slow with edibles! They can take one to four hours to take effect.
Always get a ride when using cannabis. Never get behind the wheel.
Only adults 21 or older can purchase, consume, or grow adult-use cannabis.