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Cannabis use during pregnancy, breastfeeding and postpartum: Here’s what we know

No amount of cannabis — marijuana— has been proven safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Legalization of cannabis does not mean it is safe to use. Caution is warranted with any cannabis product, including CBD oil.

During pregnancy and breastfeeding

Evidence suggests consuming cannabis during pregnancy and while breastfeeding may be harmful to your baby’s development. It may be associated with short and long-term developmental issues for children including:

  • Preterm labour
  • Low birth weight
  • Lower intelligence (ie: IQ scores)
  • Impulsivity and hyperactivity in childhood

Please note this information applies to both recreational and medical cannabis.

Credit to the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. Source 1 and Source 2.

During breastfeeding

Cannabis is stored and released from your body fat for a prolonged period of time, so “pumping and dumping” your milk after cannabis use will not eliminate the risk to your breastfeeding baby.

Evidence suggests consuming cannabis during pregnancy and while breastfeeding may be harmful to your baby’s development.

General safety after your baby is born

Please remember that your ability to care for your baby is impaired when you use cannabis. Babies may also be exposed to second-hand smoke which can be harmful.

Do you want to decrease or stop your cannabis use?

There is help:

Other helpful information