As marijuana use during pregnancy rises, with some expecting mothers turning to it to alleviate common symptoms of pregnancy like nausea, pain, and even stress, recent studies have raised alarms about the potential risks to both the mother and the baby. While the adverse effects of marijuana on newborns, such as low birthweight and preterm birth, have been documented, new research highlights the serious health risks that pregnant individuals face themselves. A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine sheds new light on this critical issue.

Marijuana and Maternal Health Risks

The study found that pregnant individuals who used marijuana during early pregnancy were at a significantly higher risk of experiencing severe health complications. Specifically, pregnant individuals who used marijuana compared to those who did not, were found to have a 17% increased risk of developing gestational hypertension and preeclampsia – two forms of high blood pressure conditions that can pose life-threatening risks to both mother and child. In addition, the study found a 19% increased risk of placental abruption, a condition where the placenta detaches from the uterus, which can be fatal for both the mother and the baby.

Broader Implications

The researchers noted that the risks of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia was more pronounced among individuals who used marijuana daily, suggesting a dose-response relationship. This aligns with other studies that have linked frequent marijuana use to cardiovascular issues such as myocardial infarction and stroke in the general population.

Additionally, the study found that marijuana use during pregnancy was associated with both excessive and insufficient gestational weight gain (GWG), which can lead to further health complications. Excessive GWG is linked to risk of hypertensive disorders, while insufficient GWG can have adverse effects on both maternal and child health.

The study also found a lower risk of gestational diabetes (GD) among marijuana users, a finding that is consistent with some previous research. However, the reasons behind this association remain unclear, and the study suggests that more research is needed to understand the potential mechanisms at play.

 A Call for Greater Awareness and Action

The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for pregnant individuals to be fully informed about the potential risks of marijuana use. Given the increasing potency of modern marijuana products, the growing prevalence of use among pregnant women, and the low number of self-reported marijuana use, with many individuals likely underreporting their use due to fears of legal consequences or social stigma, it is crucial that healthcare providers offer clear, evidence-based guidance on this issue.

Expecting mothers should feel empowered to discuss any marijuana use with their healthcare provider without fear of judgment or legal repercussions. As the research suggests, it is never too late to reduce or stop marijuana use during pregnancy to minimize potential health risks.

In conclusion, while the conversation around marijuana use often focuses on its potential therapeutic benefits, it is essential to also consider the significant risks it poses, particularly during pregnancy. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that marijuana use is not safe for pregnant individuals and highlights the need for further research and public health education to protect the health and well-being of both mothers and their babies.

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References

Young-Wolff KC, Adams SR, Alexeeff SE, et al. Prenatal Cannabis Use and Maternal Pregnancy Outcomes. JAMA Intern Med. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2024.3270

LaMotte, S. (2024, July 22). Marijuana use during pregnancy may increase risk of mental health issues in children, study finds. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/22/health/marijuana-pregnancy-risk-wellness/index.html