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accessHealthNews.net
July 2024
Volume 10 | Issue No. 86
"I encourage each individual to dig deeper into the reason
why they are using marijuana as a stimulant. For some,
it may be a habit that was formed. For others, it may be a
coping mechanism for anxiety, depression and other health
concerns."
- Certified birth doula Shariah Edwards
Marijuana, a psychoactive plant with a
long and complex history, has become
increasingly legalized and socially
accepted in recent years. This shift has
led to a critical question for pregnant
people: is marijuana safe to use during
pregnancy? The answer, unfortunately, is
not simple.
Cannabis has been used for medicinal
and recreational purposes for millennia.
Across cultures, its perception has varied
widely. In ancient China, it was used
to treat a variety of ailments, while in
medieval Europe, its use was often
demonized. In the 20th century, marijuana
faced legal prohibition in many countries,
fueled by concerns about its psychoactive
effects. Today, the landscape is changing
once more, with a growing number of
countries legalizing marijuana for medical
or recreational use.
However, the conversation about
marijuana and pregnancy remains mostly
absent from the discussions. Culturally,
there may be misconceptions about
the safety of marijuana based on its
historical use as a medicine. Pregnant
people throughout history have turned
to various herbal remedies to manage a
range of discomforts, from nausea and
vomiting to pain and anxiety. Some might
mistakenly believe marijuana falls into
this category, overlooking the potential
risks to a developing fetus. This lack of
open dialogue can lead to confusion
and potentially risky choices for pregnant
individuals.
Risks to the Pregnant Person
While marijuana may offer some medicinal
benefits, research on its safety during
pregnancy is limited. There is currently no
evidence to suggest marijuana use is safe
for a developing fetus. In fact, there are
potential risks to the pregnant person's
health as well.
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