Cannabis may be harmful to your baby, no matter how it is used—whether through smoking, vaping, dabbing, edibles, or topical products. Exposure during pregnancy or breastfeeding may affect fetal development and infant health. If you are using cannabis and are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor to discuss safer options for you and your baby.
Pregnancy Considerations
Using cannabis during pregnancy may affect your baby's development and put you at risk of pregnancy complications. When marijuana is smoked or eaten, the chemicals reach the fetus by crossing the placenta. Research is limited on the harms of marijuana use during pregnancy. But there are possible risks of marijuana use, including babies that are smaller at birth and stillbirth. Using marijuana also can be harmful to a pregnant woman’s health. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women not use marijuana.
Breastfeeding Considerations
Using marijuana may allow harmful chemicals to pass from the mother to the infant through breast milk or secondhand smoke exposure. To limit potential risks to the infant, breastfeeding mothers should be advised not to use marijuana or products containing cannabidiol (CBD).
What You Should Know About Using Cannabis, Including CBD, When Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Potential health effects of using cannabis during pregnancy
Marijuana and Pregnancy Infographic
Baby Blog- Marijuana and Pregnancy
What You Should Know About Using Cannabis, Including CBD, When Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Studies on Drugs and Lactation: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®)