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The Surprising Impact of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy - Cord Blood

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The Surprising Impact of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy

Scientist reading research notes

Pregnancy involves a multitude of choices and considerations for expectant mothers. Among these decisions is the question of cannabis use. While some may view cannabis as a harmless or even therapeutic substance, recent research suggests it’s time to reassess its safety during pregnancy. In a comprehensive study funded by the National Institutes of Health in the US, researchers have unearthed significant findings that underscore the potential risks associated with cannabis use during this critical period. Let’s delve into what this means for expecting mothers and their babies.

Understanding the Risks

The study, conducted by Dr. Torri Metz and colleagues at the University of Utah Health and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, provides a clearer picture of how cannabis use can affect pregnancy. It’s a significant leap in understanding, particularly given that previous research has indicated that the use of cannabis during pregnancy is often underreported.

The Methodology

The researchers analysed urine samples from 9,257 participants, collected at various stages of their pregnancy. By measuring levels of a cannabis by-product, the study sought to establish a link between cannabis use and complications associated with poor placental function.

Key Findings

The results were eye-opening:

  1. Prevalence of Use: Among the participants, 6.6% tested positive for cannabis. Notably, 32.4% of these were positive only during the first trimester, while 67.6% continued use beyond that.
  2. Increased Risk of Complications: Those who tested positive for cannabis at any point during the study had a 25.9% chance of experiencing complications linked to placental impairment, compared to 17.4% for those who tested negative. This represents a 27% higher risk overall.
  3. Trimester-Specific Risks: Cannabis use confined to the first trimester was associated with an 18% higher risk of complications. The risk escalated to 32% when use extended beyond the first trimester.

The Placenta and Pregnancy

The placenta plays a crucial role in pregnancy. It supplies the fetus with nutrients and oxygen while removing waste. Impairments in placental function can lead to serious conditions like hypertensive disorders, preterm birth, stillbirth, or having an infant born small for gestational age.

The Previous Understanding

Prior to this study, there was already some indication of the risks posed by cannabis use during pregnancy. For instance, a reduction in birthweight had been noted, and animal studies (such as those involving rhesus macaques) showed that exposure to cannabis led to reduced blood flow and oxygen in the placenta.

The Implications for Expectant Mothers

This study is a crucial wake-up call. The message is clear: to optimise maternal and newborn outcomes, cannabis use should be avoided during pregnancy. While the reasons for using cannabis – whether for medical, recreational, or therapeutic purposes – vary, the potential risks it poses during pregnancy are now more evident.