Is ‘Natural’ Really Safe? The Shocking Truth About Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Your Baby’s Development!

Using cannabis during pregnancy might seem like a “natural” way to relieve nausea or stress, but a new study suggests that the natural label doesn’t guarantee safety—especially when it comes to a developing child. Recent research published on Oct. 28 in JAMA Pediatrics highlights that cannabis exposure in the womb could lead to lasting developmental issues in children, including cognitive delays and behavioral challenges.

The research team, led by Sarah Keim from Nationwide Children's Hospital in Ohio, found that children exposed to cannabis before birth scored lower on tests of impulse control and planning abilities and displayed increased signs of aggression and inattentiveness. These findings emphasize a need for expecting parents to think critically about the potential dangers of cannabis use, even though it's often marketed as a harmless, natural option.

Cannabis may be a plant-based product, but it still carries risks, especially during pregnancy, said Keim, who serves as the principal investigator in the Center for Biobehavioral Health. “While some women may feel tempted to use cannabis to cope with pregnancy symptoms like nausea or anxiety, it’s vital to understand that what’s natural is not always without harm.”

The study tracked developmental markers in preschool-aged children through a combination of cognitive assessments and behavioral observations. Children exposed to cannabis in the womb consistently showed lower impulse control, struggled with focus, and often exhibited more aggressive behaviors. These findings align with previous studies while shedding new light on the heightened risks linked to today’s more potent strains of cannabis.

Keim pointed out that the strength of cannabis products has increased significantly over the past several decades, which could intensify the impact on fetal brain development. “Our research reinforces earlier evidence and is a reminder that the strength of cannabis today is not what it used to be, adding another layer of risk to prenatal exposure,” she said.

Rather than turn to cannabis, Keim advises pregnant women to consult healthcare providers for safer ways to address symptoms like nausea, insomnia, and stress. Recognizing the allure of cannabis as a natural solution, Keim emphasized the importance of weighing all potential risks to both mother and child.

As cannabis use becomes more normalized and potent varieties more widely available, Keim and her colleagues hope their findings will lead to more informed choices during pregnancy. For those seeking symptom relief, she suggests focusing on medically recommended treatments to avoid inadvertently exposing their child to developmental harm.

Would you think twice about using a ‘natural’ remedy if you knew it could harm your child’s development?