How could using cannabis harm a developing baby?
During pregnancy, the placenta and the umbilical cord connect to the developing baby. Drugs like cannabis can pass through the placenta and affect the baby. There is no safe amount of cannabis use while pregnant. Not using cannabis is the safest choice when pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Developing babies exposed to cannabis are at a higher risk for low birth weight. A smaller baby is more likely to have health issues and stay in the hospital longer. After they are born, they may not be able to self-soothe and may have problems with sleep. There may be effects throughout childhood or longer-term impacts such as:
- abnormal brain development
- slower growth
- learning problems
- behaviour concerns
Cannabis purchased from an illegal or unlicensed source could be mixed with other substances or have contaminants like chemicals, mold or fungi that could harm you and your developing baby. If you don’t plan to stop using cannabis, purchase your cannabis from a legal supplier so that you can limit some of these risks.
Learn more about the effects of cannabis on your baby here.
If you’re planning to become pregnant or if you are already pregnant, and want to reduce or quit your cannabis use, help is available.
- Call the AHS Addiction Helpline, toll-free, 24/7 at 1-866-332-2322.
- For more information and to find services in your area, go to AHS Addiction & Mental Health.
