Are you wondering whether THC is safe for your pregnancy? You’re not alone. THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, can go through the placenta, enter your baby’s bloodstream, and potentially affect development.
Women use marijuana for a variety of reasons, including nausea, anxiety, or sleep struggles. It’s important to know that during pregnancy, THC exposure comes with serious risks you deserve to know about. The good news is that support and healthier alternatives are available to you.
What Is THC? How Does It Affect Pregnancy?
THC, called tetrahydrocannabinol, is the main ingredient in marijuana that gives the feeling of being “high.” It’s in most cannabis products, including vapes, edibles, oils, and smoked marijuana. Even some CBD products can contain trace amounts of THC because they are not closely regulated.
With pregnancy, THC can pass through the placenta, so your baby is exposed whenever you are. Since a baby’s brain and nervous system develop rapidly during pregnancy, any substance affecting those pathways can have an impact.
Trusted medical sources like the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic warn that marijuana use during pregnancy is not considered safe, largely because THC may affect early growth and brain development. The CDC also states that the use of marijuana while pregnant may be linked to lower birth weight and potential developmental issues in children.
Why is THC Use Risky During Pregnancy?
In simple terms, THC exposure is not considered safe at any stage of pregnancy. While research continues to grow around THC and pregnancy, studies show multiple reasons to be cautious.
Possible risks may include:
- Lower birth weight
- Premature birth
- Changes in brain development
- Newborn tremors or withdrawal-like symptoms
- Attention or learning difficulties later in childhood
- Misarriage
- Stillbirth
- Increased risk of childhood cancers
Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) also shares that prenatal marijuana exposure may be linked to attention, memory, and behavioral problems later in childhood.
While every pregnancy is unique and risks will vary, understanding them helps you make informed, healthy choices for both you and your baby.
If you feel overwhelmed by learning this information about this topic, you don’t have to do this journey alone. Support is available.
Why Some Women Use THC During Pregnancy
While many women don’t intentionally try to harm their baby while using THC, they’re simply trying to cope. You may relate to one or more of these:
- Constant nausea
- Sleep disorder
- Anxiety or racing thoughts
- Appetite problems
- Prior THC use
- Stress or overwhelm
- Confusion about whether CBD or marijuana is safe
Seeking relief from stress and pregnancy is normal. You deserve compassion and clarity, not judgment.
If you’re feeling unsure about THC use while pregnant, speaking with a nurse can help you feel understood and informed. Contact us today – our team is here for you to talk when you need it, free and confidentially.
Are CBD and THC the Same During Pregnancy?
CBD and THC are not the same. Just like THC, CBD products are also not risk-free during pregnancy.
Here’s why:
- Many CBD products contain trace THC (even when labeled “THC-free”).
- CBD products are not FDA-regulated, which means dosages and ingredients can be inaccurate. According to studies, many CBD products are inaccurately labeled and may contain THC or other contaminants, making them unsafe during pregnancy.
- There is limited data on the safety of CBD in pregnancy.
- These CBD oils may be contaminated with pesticides, metals, or solvents.
Due to these concerns, medical professionals generally recommend avoiding CBD and THC while pregnant.
Healthy Ways to Manage Symptoms Without THC
Now that you know more about using THC while pregnant, how do you cope without it? You’re not expected to do this alone, and you have alternatives.
For Nausea
- Small, frequent meals
- Ginger tea or chews
- Preggy Pops
- Vitamin B6 (only after speaking with your provider)
- Crackers in the morning
- Hydration
- Slow positional changes
- Ask your OBGYN about prescribing meds such as Phenergan or Zofran
For Anxiety or Stress
- Deep breathing
- Journaling
- Prayer or meditation
- Brief walks
- Calming music
- Talking with a supportive person
For Sleep Troubles
- Warm shower before bed
- Dimmed lights
- Turning off screens early
- Consistent bedtime routine
These small steps of using alternatives during pregnancy can make a big difference. The most important thing is that they’re safe options recommended by medical professionals. The Mayo Clinic also recommends vitamin B6, hydration, and small, frequent meals to help relieve early pregnancy nausea.
What Should I Do If I’ve Already Used THC During Pregnancy?
Whether you panicked or took THC without knowing the pregnancy risks, you are not a bad mother. Here’s what you can do next:
- Don’t panic, as stress won’t help you or your baby.
- If you’re using THC regularly, talk with a medical professional before stopping abruptly.
- Share honestly with your OB-GYN or midwife; they’re there to help you navigate safely.
- Consider connecting with a nurse who can support you in a judgment-free environment.
- Focus on moving forward with healthy choices from today forward.
You are not too late to the game to make a positive step forward in your pregnancy journey.
Where to Get Safe & Confidential Support
If you’re still feeling anxious, confused, or unsure how to stop using THC during pregnancy, our team is here for you and provides:
- Confidential pregnancy consultations
- Medically accurate information
- Emotional support
- Help navigating next steps
- Referrals for additional care if needed
We’re here to help you with compassion, clarity, and respect for your unique situation.
Support Is Available When You Need It
Whether you have questions about pregnancy and THC or want to talk through other pregnancy questions, we’re here for you. We want to give you a safe space to breathe, process, and feel supported, no matter where you are right now.
Schedule a free and confidential appointment with our caring team of medical professionals today. We’re here to walk with you.
FAQ: Pregnancy and THC
Q: Is THC safe during pregnancy?
A: No, THC is not safe during pregnancy. Medical organizations agree that THC can cross the placenta and may affect fetal development.
Q: Can using weed while pregnant harm my baby?
A: Yes, it can increase the risk of low birth weight, premature birth, or developmental concerns, as well as miscarriage and stillbirth. Though each pregnancy is unique, avoiding THC is the safest option.
Q: Are edibles safer than smoking marijuana during pregnancy?
A: No, because edibles still contain THC, and the effects last longer in the body.
Q: Does THC pass into breast milk?
A: Yes, THC can remain in breast milk for days or longer.
Q: Can I use CBD during pregnancy?
A: Since CBD products may contain THC and lack regulation, they are not considered safe during pregnancy.