If you are a woman who is expecting to get pregnant or is expecting a baby, your doctor has probably instructed you to stay away from potentially harmful substances like alcohol and medications. Although you are probably following the rules, did you know that a large number of pregnant mothers will continue to use drugs or alcohol while expecting a baby? You are probably familiar with how opioids and alcohol can damage a baby’s physical and mental well-being inside and outside the womb. Still, scientists are largely unsure about one new member of the medication team: marijuana. With its rise to popularity, the little green plant is now being used by some moms-to-be. Not only that, pot is the most common drug used by expectant women. Let’s take a closer look at the dangers of smoking marijuana while pregnant.
Is It Dangerous?
Due to the fact that this plant is legal in most of the United States (for medical purposes), many mothers may be under the misconception that it is perfectly fine to ingest the herb while pregnant. The reality of the matter could not be more different. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), any strain of marijuana and any marijuana-infused product can potentially harm an unborn baby. Likewise, Dr. Heather Bradshaw (a cannabinoid pharmacology specialist at the Department of Psychological Brain Sciences at Indiana University) explains how some research indicates how prenatal exposure to THC can trigger schizophrenia and damage motor development.
What Are the Risks?
In an analysis of 24 different studies, researchers discovered a big connection between marijuana use during pregnancy and a low birth weight. Additionally, the team confirmed that babies who were born to mothers who consumed pot during pregnancy required a longer stay at ICUs, in contrast to babies who had not been exposed to any drugs in utero. Similar evidence was produced by a 2017 study focusing on expectant mothers who smoke marijuana and cigarettes.
Even more disturbing, a 2013 study by the National Institute of Health (NIH) considered the connection between prenatal marijuana exposure and stillbirths. After analyzing the results, the researchers confirmed that the risk of stillbirth is 2.3 times higher for babies whose mothers consumed pot while pregnant.
Seeking Treatment for Marijuana Use Disorder
Are you suffering from drug abuse or addiction or have a friend or family member suffering from one of these debilitating illnesses? We at Asana Recovery are waiting to help you take back control of your life. Our lineup of counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through the detox, withdrawal, and rehabilitation processes and guide you toward a happier, healthier, and freer future. Although your road to recovery will not always be easy to travel, we promise to support your and help you at every difficult turn you make. We are ready to help you take back control of your life.
Are you interested in one of your residential treatment programs or seeking a supervised detoxification/withdrawal program? If so, call Asana today at (949) 438-4504 to speak with one of our experts. We are waiting to discuss your treatment options at your disclosure. Learn how you can overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
