Is It Safe for My Baby? - Cannabis

(e.g., marijuana, hashish, hash, pot)

Risks During Pregnancy

• Because marijuana is often smoked, it can pose some of the same risks associated with tobacco use.
• Cannabis use may increase the risk of having a low birth weight baby.
• Some studies suggest that there may be an increased risk of subtle negative effects to the baby, such as sleep disturbances and other thinking problems. Researchers are looking at these effects (and others, such as hyperactivity and attention problems) not only in infancy, but also during childhood.

Recommendations During Pregnancy

• It’s best not to use cannabis or be in a room with someone who is smoking it.
• Seek help/counselling about how to stop.

Risks During Breastfeeding

• Cannabis can stay in the body for extended periods and can be passed on to the baby in breast milk.
• The baby's motor development could be delayed from exposure to cannabis in breast milk.

Recommendations During Breastfeeding

• It is best not to use cannabis.
• Seek help/counselling about how to stop.
• When possible, avoid being in a room with people who are smoking.

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