The perinatal period refers to the time during pregnancy and shortly after birth. Current research and evidence are evolving regarding cannabis use and its effects on fertility, pregnancy and fetal and child development. Given the lack of knowledge available, people who are pregnant or are breastfeeding/chestfeeding are advised to avoid using cannabis.
For general information about cannabis and your health, please visit our cannabis page.
Cannabis use and pregnancy
- Cannabis can pass through the placenta and affect the baby’s development.
- Frequent cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with low birth weight (which puts babies at increased risk for several complications) and can be related to other negative impacts, such as preterm birth, issues with brain development, increased risk of miscarriage and stillbirth and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Cannabis use and breastfeeding/chestfeeding
- Cannabis can be passed to babies through human milk. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can be stored in the brain and fat cells of a baby for six days to six weeks. Cannabidiol (CBD) has also been found in human milk.
- Some research shows that cannabis in human milk can have an impact on motor and brain development.
- Smoking or vaping while breastfeeding/chestfeeding exposes babies to chemicals that are potentially harmful.
- The more a baby is exposed to cannabis, the more they will experience negative effects.
Cannabis and child development
- Cannabis use by both parents can have negative impacts on a child’s neurodevelopment. These effects can be connected to factors like genetics, family environment, parenting behaviors and the lifestyle habits of the parents.
- Affects on child and young adult behaviour have also been seen, including attention deficits, emotional disturbances, increased hyperactivity and impulsivity, sleep disorders and increased likelihood of substance use.
Cannabis and parenting
- Using cannabis may affect parent-child interactions and attachment. The effects of cannabis can last for several hours, meaning a parent or caregiver may have a reduced ability to pay attention, make decisions or react to emergencies. This can affect how parents respond to a child’s needs and keep them safe. Parents can miss:
- Signs of danger
- Need to be comforted
- Cues for hunger
- Desire to play and learn
- Cannabis poisoning is of particular concern for children and youth as they may mistake edibles for candy or sweets. Health Canada provides information on How to Help Prevent Cannabis Poisoning in Children.
Where can I seek help?
If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, you can contact the Alcohol and Drug Information and Referral Line toll-free at 1-800-663-1441 or in the lower mainland at 604-660-9382.
Resources
- The Center for Addiction and Mental Health: Lower risk cannabis use guidelines
- Health Canada: Thinking about using cannabis before or during pregnancy?
- Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada: Cannabis and pregnancy
- Center for Excellence for Women’s Health: Sex, gender and cannabis hub