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Cannabis (marijuana) use in pregnancy

By Dr Joe Kabyemela, MD

There are, without doubt, a number of people who would baulk at the term "abuse" in reference to cannabis use. We will not attempt here to argue the merits of this debate one way or the other. However, of all drugs that are classified as illicit, cannabis is believed to be the most abused. Conservative estimates put regular annual users at just over 160 million.

Cannabis is also known as marijuana or ganja, the latter name having an Indian origin. The drug is derived from three related plant species of the same family. It is therefore available in varying strengths but the effects are generally the same.

When it comes to pregnancy, cannabis use is undoubtedly a bad idea. Many of the adverse effects of cigarette smoking are also seen with cannabis use.

Of course, research on this has repeatedly been frustrated by the fact that many - if not most - of those who use cannabis are cigarette smokers as well.

Old evidence pointed to the fact that cannabis could independently causes intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) with all the potential problems associated with this. However, more recent studies have not showed conclusive evidence to support this.

Cannabis may also cause fetal malformations, occasionally with babies born with dysmorphic features.

The baby may display behavioral and sleep abnormalities, especially in the first few weeks. There may be delay in cognitive development as well.

When a woman using cannabis becomes pregnant, she should be encouraged to give up. This is safe to do during pregnancy. Most, if not all, hospitals have got rehabilitation units where individuals with a problem of substance abuse are helped by professionals to give up. Cannabis use in pregnancy is harmful

Cannabis is the most abused illicit drug in the world. Its use during pregnancy is known to cause growth restriction in the womb and other delayed adverse effects on the baby