New study finds 6% of pregnant women use marijuana—what this means for moms-to-be

As cannabis becomes more widely accepted across the U.S., conversations about its use are becoming more common—even among expectant mothers. 

A recent study from the University of Georgia highlights a trend: among 4,338 pregnant mothers, 5.7% reported marijuana use during pregnancy, often to manage symptoms like nausea. The study noted various cannabis consumption methods among pregnant women—smoking, edibles, and tinctures. 

Yet the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) advise against cannabis use during pregnancy, given its potential risks to fetal health.

Why some pregnant women consider cannabis

Pregnancy can bring on nausea, sleep challenges, and stress—symptoms some moms manage with cannabis. Traditional medications are available but may have side effects, leading some to seek alternatives. The University of Georgia study found that most pregnant women who reported marijuana use were in the early stages of pregnancy, when symptoms like nausea and vomiting can be at their worst. 

Both ACOG and AAP assert there is no safe level of marijuana use during pregnancy, as THC, cannabis’s active compound, crosses the placenta and may impact fetal development. 

“Women should definitely be counseled that it’s not a good idea to use marijuana while pregnant,” Dr. Seth Ammerman, a clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford, tells The Los Angeles Times. “If you’re breastfeeding, we would encourage you to cut back or quit.”

Potential fetal risks of cannabis exposure

While research continues, studies suggest several concerns with prenatal cannabis exposure:

• Fetal brain development: Research suggests that prenatal cannabis exposure may impact fetal brain development. The AAP notes that early findings raise concerns about possible effects on memory, attention, and cognitive function as children grow.
• Low birth weight: Studies have shown an association between prenatal marijuana exposure and lower birth weight in newborns, which is associated with various health risks.
• Behavioral and developmental concerns: Studies from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and JAMA Pediatrics suggests that children exposed to cannabis in utero may face behavioral and attention challenges into adolescence. While more research is needed to understand the full extent of these effects, the AAP recommends that moms err on the side of caution.

Today’s cannabis is also far more potent than in past decades, raising additional questions about potential long-term impacts. In a clinical report, the AAP states: “In recent years, the increase in potency of cannabis (which includes a sixfold to sevenfold increase in tetrahydrocannabinol [THC] content), the proliferation of alternative forms of cannabis for consumption, and electronic vapor device use pose challenges to both public health and clinical practice.”

New findings on maternal risks 

In addition to potential effects on fetal development, recent research highlights risks to maternal health. A 2024 study from Kaiser Permanente found that pregnant individuals using cannabis in early pregnancy had increased risks of several conditions:

• 17% higher risk of gestational hypertension: High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to serious complications if left unmanaged.
• 8% higher risk of preeclampsia: A dangerous condition marked by high blood pressure and potential organ damage.
• 19% higher risk of placental abruption: Premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, which can cause heavy bleeding and endanger both the pregnancy and the mother’s life.
• 9% more likely to gain excessive weight and 5% more likely to gain insufficient weight: Both extremes can increase the likelihood of complications and affect the baby’s growth.

These findings reinforce ACOG and AAP’s guidance to avoid cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Medical organizations recommend open, judgment-free conversations with healthcare providers to explore safe symptom relief options.

“Research suggests that pregnant people are bombarded with inaccurate messages from social media, cannabis retailers and peers suggesting that cannabis use during pregnancy is safe,”  said lead study author Kelly Young-Wolff, a research scientist at Kaiser Permanente Division of Research. “Our study provides timely and important data that adds to the growing body of evidence indicating that cannabis use during pregnancy is not safe.”

Pregnancy-safe symptom relief options

Pregnancy-safe alternatives for managing symptoms like nausea include ginger, acupressure, and certain pregnancy-approved medications. Relaxation techniques and prenatal yoga may also help, and your healthcare provider can offer personalized recommendations. For further insights on navigating cannabis and motherhood, check out Cannabis Use in Motherhood.

The bottom line: Although the trend of “cannamoms” is growing, AAP guidance continues to recommend caution during pregnancy. By staying informed and consulting professionals, expectant moms can make choices that support both their health and their baby’s future well-being.