A recent qualitative study exploring the perspectives of people who used marijuana before or during pregnancy in states where mandatory warning signs (MWS) are required found that fear-based signs were ineffective in discouraging the purchase and use of marijuana, highlighting a crucial gap between intent and impact. The study, which included a small sample size of 34 interviews, found that these signs often left pregnant individuals feeling judged, stigmatized, and perhaps defensive. While these signs are intended to deter marijuana use during pregnancy, pre- and post-partum, they may instead alienate pregnant people.
According to participants in this study, many found the warning signs unhelpful, vague, and even misleading. Some questioned the credibility of the sources of the facts provided, while others pointed out that the signs did little to change behavior, particularly since many had already made up their mind before entering the dispensary. Instead of prompting reconsideration, the signs triggered distrust, and for some, even shame.
A cause for greater concern is the study’s suggestion that MWS- marijuana signs may discourage pregnant people from seeking care or discussing marijuana use with healthcare providers. Fear of punishment, especially for marginalized communities, can create barriers to open conversations about substance use, leaving pregnant individuals without guidance and the support they deserve.
So, if fear-based messages are not effective, what is? Participants in the study offered a clear answer: health information should be evidence-based, clear, and supportive of autonomy. Rather than vague threats or legal warnings, people preferred messages that provided specific, research-backed information on the potential risks, allowing them to make informed choices about their health. Sources such as the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists and the CDC were considered more trustworthy, especially when they explained the biological mechanisms that make marijuana harmful and explicitly stated what is known and what still needs to be studied.
While the sample size of this study is small, it underscores an important point: to effectively communicate the known risks of marijuana during pregnancy and postpartum, we need science-based messaging that is both transparent and compassionate. And while researchers are still uncovering the full picture of how marijuana affects pregnancy; the existing science strongly suggests that marijuana use during pregnancy and postpartum is linked to many health risks for both parent and child.
Public health research often suggests that emphasizing positive, health-promoting behaviors is more effective than focusing solely on risk and punishment. For people who are already skeptical of government messaging, a more transparent and supportive approach may be the key to building trust and fostering meaningful conversations about marijuana use during pregnancy.
To ensure that the message about the risks of marijuana use during pregnancy reaches those who need it most, it is essential to avoid stigmatizing or alienating language that could undermine trust. Instead, we should focus on presenting science clearly and empathetically to promote informed decision-making.
For talking points and a variety of resources related to the impacts of marijuana use during pregnancy, visit https://www.marijuanaknowthetruth.org/marijuana-and-pregnancy/.
Reference:
Gould, H., Zaugg, C., Biggs, M. A., Woodruff, K., Long, W., Mailman, K., Vega, J., & Roberts, S. C. M. (2025). Mandatory warning signs for cannabis: Perspectives and preferences of pregnant and recently pregnant people who use cannabis. Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, 86(1), 75-84. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsad.23-00214
