Post: CBD use during pregnancy has unexpected consequences

Pregnancy is a time when many expectant mothers seek ways to manage discomfort and stress. With growing interest in natural remedies, cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from cannabis, has gained popularity as a perceived safe option for nausea, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, CBD does not produce a high, leading many to assume it poses little to no risk during pregnancy.

Despite this perception, scientific research on the effects of CBD during pregnancy remains limited. Many previous studies have focused on cannabis smoke or THC exposure, leaving CBD largely unexplored.

A new study from McMaster University challenges these assumptions, revealing concerning links between CBD use and fetal development issues. These findings suggest that CBD, often considered harmless, may have unexpected consequences for both mother and child. Potential risks of CBD in pregnancy

A team of researchers at McMaster University investigated the effects of cannabis use during pregnancy, specifically focusing on both CBD and THC.

The findings, published in eBioMedicine , highlight the potential dangers of oral cannabis consumption from early to mid-pregnancy.

The study revealed that cannabis exposure was associated with impaired fetal growth, changes in the placenta, and behavioral alterations in offspring.

Tyrah Ritchie led the study while completing her master’s degree in the Medical Sciences program at McMaster University.

“The use of cannabis during pregnancy is rising in Canada. Most previous studies focus on exposure to cannabis smoke or just the psychoactive component of cannabis (THC), leaving other cannabis ingredients and methods of consumption understudied, “ noted Ritchie. “ However, consuming cannabis orally or only using other cannabis ingredients like CBD, is often perceived as safer despite this lack of evidence. Our study is shedding light that there’s a possibility that CBD might also be harmful in the pregnancy.”The study challenges the belief that CBD is a safe alternative to THC during pregnancy. While THC has long been linked to developmental concerns, this research suggests that CBD may also have unintended effects. Fetal growth and placental development The researchers examined how THC and CBD affect fetal development by administering cannabis oil to pregnant mice.Their observations revealed that […]

CBD use during pregnancy has unexpected consequences