Expecting a baby is a joyous time for mothers around the world, but the ensuing nine months can be a very tricky time. Particularly during the first trimester, some women will suffer through mild to severe morning sickness, characterized by bouts of nausea, vomiting, and lethargy. Typically, these symptoms are not difficult to manage (with the help of your doctor), but studies indicate that some mothers are taking matters into their own hands through unexpected, dangerous ways. Some women are, in fact, resorting to marijuana to ease nausea and discomfort during morning sickness. Let’s take a look at why this decision is not good for your baby and certainly (and most definitely) terrible for you.
JAMA Report
In August 2018, researchers from JAMA Internal Medicine discovered that pregnant mothers who suffer from severe bouts of morning sickness during the first trimester consume marijuana at a greater rate than women who do not go through this process at all. Additional portions of the study also revealed that females suffering from moderate morning sickness were two times more likely to consume marijuana to ease symptoms than other pregnant women.
Scientists argue that (of course) self-medication of this nature can only lead to disaster. Pregnant women are putting themselves at risk for long-term side effects (caused by marijuana) and are endangering their unborn children’s lives in the process.
Marijuana’s Effects on Babies
The fact is simple: everything a pregnant mother consumes flows through her system and directly into her baby’s body. The case with marijuana is the same. When a woman smokes, vapes, or eats a marijuana product, her baby absorbs harmful chemicals like THC (delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol). As a result, the child’s physical and mental development can be greatly impeded. Here are some of the problems marijuana consumption can inflict on a baby:
- Impeded physical development (in the womb)
- Low birth weight
- Attention deficit and other behavioral problems (after birth)
- Consumption of THC through breastmilk (can take place after the mother has stopped using since THC is stored in fat for a long time)
Consider this: 1 out of 20 U.S. women smoke marijuana while they are expecting babies.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction or substance abuse troubles today.