As stated on its website, “FDA strongly advises against the use of cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and marijuana in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.”
But, there are no studies on pregnant women. Doctors just don’t know what will happen if a pregnant woman takes CBD.
They do know there could be a significant risk. Studies on rats showed developmental defects in the baby rats and indications of higher anxiety, autism, epilepsy, and impaired male development.
In fact, the latest study for Nov 15, 2021 shows children of women who use cannabis show a higher risk of anxiety, aggression, hyperactivity, and compromised immune system by the age of 6. It also shows impaired placenta development. The study did not determine if this was CBD or the mix of different constituents, or THC.
But there’s a bigger risk. The CBD industry is practically unregulated. Random testing shows contamination in many samples, and THC, the hallucinogenic factor of marijuana, can be found in CBD products claiming to have none.
But, the biggest issue is suspecting it can impair the developing fetal brain from correctly producing its own hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin. Once born, the baby no longer has the supply of CBD it now requires. Babies may go through symptoms of drug withdrawal, leaving long-term effects on their health and well-being.
If It’s So Bad, Why Are So Many Moms-To-Be Using It?
Research shows that CBD can be therapeutically beneficial for managing anxiety and depression, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and seizure disorders. Some clinical evidence shows CBD helps suppress nausea and vomiting, although this was not studied in pregnant women.
Many testimonials online show CBD products have helped women through their pregnancy. It helps them remain calm, relatively pain-free, reducing nausea and anxiety, and easing the hormonal fluctuations.
Here’s What To Look For In CBD Products
If you do choose to use CBD products, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.
First, do your research. You want the pure CBD isolate product to avoid contamination by THC. Any products you purchase should have quality control information that shows the exact chemical constituents of your product.
You should start as low a dose as possible, only increasing gradually.
Be sure to talk to your doctor to make sure they know you are taking CBD and ask if it will interfere with any other medications or supplements you may be taking. CBD can cause dangerous interactions with certain drugs and herbal products, such as blood thinners, blood pressure medication, antidepressants, or stimulants.
Using CBD during pregnancy is uncertain right now. If you do choose to use CBD, make sure you do your research, get good quality products, and let your doctor know to avoid complications.
