Cannabis – Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
There are specific risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. There is no known safe amount of cannabis use for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Some of the risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy include:
- Low birth weight
- Pre-term labour
- Long-term health problems (cardiovascular and mental health)
- Short and long-term learning, development, and behavioural issues
For more information about cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding visit the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada’s Pregnancy Info webpage.
It isn’t possible to predict with certainty which individuals will experience harms from cannabis, but risks associated with cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has led to the recommendation to avoid cannabis use if pregnant or breastfeeding.
Also, the chemicals in cannabis smoke are many of the same toxic chemicals found in tobacco smoke. It is recommended to avoid being in enclosed spaces when cannabis is being smoked if you are pregnant or with your infant/child.
If you have questions about using cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding, talk to your health care provider. Together, you may be able to explore alternatives to cannabis if you:
- suffer from nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
- struggle with anxiety
- use cannabis for medical reasons
The following resources provide additional information related to cannabis use and pregnancy:
- Best Start – Risks of Cannabis on Fertility, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Parenting
- Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction – Maternal Cannabis Use during Pregnancy Info Sheet