Cannabis and Pregnancy
"With the new legalization of cannabis in Canada, being aware of the potentially harmful effects of cannabis on a healthy pregnancy and your baby is important. Give your baby the best start.

Why take the chance?
There is not enough clinical evidence to accurately determine the benefits or risks of using cannabis while pregnant. Among other reasons, there aren't standard levels of THC (the main, active ingredient) in cannabis, pregnant women may be hesitant to report if they use and how often they use cannabis, and it is very difficult to factor out the effects of also using tobacco while pregnant. Until we have more definitive answers, not using cannabis during pregnancy is the safest option for you and your baby.

Effects on your baby:
Cannabis in all forms may affect your baby's brain development and may result in learning and behavioural issues that last throughout their life. While more research is needed, studies have indicated that the use of cannabis during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding, may be associated with increased risk for the following issues:

- Low birth weight
- Preterm labour
- Long-term health problems related to cardiovascular and mental health
- Short- and long-term learning, development, and behavioural issues including low IQ scores, impulsivity and hyperactivity in childhood, some of which may persist into adulthood.

More research is needed to better understand the effects of cannabis on fetal development and across the lifespan. Not using cannabis during pregnancy and while breastfeeding is the safest option for you and your baby. More studies will lead to more definitive answers."


For more information visit: https://www.pregnancyinfo.ca/learn-more/