A national organization of obstetricians and gynecologists has recently issued comprehensive guidelines for both medical professionals and the general public concerning the use of cannabis during pregnancy and lactation. These recommendations emphasize complete avoidance of the substance, including all forms of medical cannabis and edibles, throughout these critical periods. The advice is grounded in a growing body of scientific research that indicates potential negative health outcomes for infants exposed to cannabis prenatally or postnatally. This updated guidance arrives at a time when cannabis legalization is expanding, and public perceptions are evolving, underscoring the importance of clear medical directives to protect maternal and infant health.
National OBGYN Group Updates Cannabis Recommendations for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Individuals
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has recently disseminated new recommendations concerning cannabis use for expectant and nursing mothers, urging total abstinence from the drug, encompassing both recreational and medical forms, as well as edibles. These updated guidelines stem from various scientific investigations that have correlated cannabis exposure during pregnancy with adverse effects such as diminished birth weight, infants small for their gestational age, admissions to neonatal intensive care units, and increased perinatal mortality. Furthermore, cannabis consumption has been linked to impaired judgment, which can elevate the risk of accidents and injuries.
Beyond advising parents, ACOG has implored healthcare providers to conduct routine screenings for cannabis use in all patients—before, during, and after pregnancy. The objective of these screenings is to mitigate risks to both parent and child by enabling doctors to educate patients effectively. This is particularly crucial given the increasing normalization and legalization of cannabis, which has led to a decline in associated stigma. Medical professionals are encouraged to approach these discussions with empathy and without judgment, offering information and exploring alternative therapies for common pregnancy discomforts like nausea and pain. Despite established warnings regarding cannabis use by pregnant individuals and nursing infants, the use of cannabis and THC has surged, with a 2019 study indicating a doubling of cannabis use among pregnant individuals between 2002 and 2017. Experts also highlight persistent misunderstandings about the substance, partly due to its natural origin. While these new guidelines are advisory, pregnant individuals should anticipate discussions about cannabis during prenatal visits and receive encouragement to familiarize themselves with the reasons for its avoidance.
These updated recommendations serve as a crucial reminder for both healthcare providers and the public about the importance of evidence-based practices, particularly concerning substances like cannabis that are gaining wider acceptance. They highlight the enduring responsibility of medical organizations to safeguard public health amidst evolving social norms and legal landscapes. The emphasis on non-judgmental counseling also underscores the need for compassionate care, ensuring that patients receive accurate information and support rather than stigma. Ultimately, these guidelines advocate for informed decisions that prioritize the health and well-being of the most vulnerable members of society—newborns and expectant mothers.