Spanish / Español
The fact is, we just don’t know all of the effects of marijuana use during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and early childhood. But we DO know that no amount of THC has been proven safe for a developing child. While the transition may be challenging, experts suggest taking a break from marijuana during this time. First 5 San Joaquin is here to connect you to the support you need.
Research shows that marijuana use could be linked to developmental problems that may not be noticeable until later in childhood, such as lower IQ and learning disorders.
THC can be passed to your baby through breast milk, even after quitting marijuana, as it slowly releases over time.
Second-hand marijuana smoke has many of the same chemicals as tobacco smoke which are harmful to your child.
Using marijuana increases risk of low birth weight.
Help is available if you need support to stop using marijuana while you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Call 2-1-1 or talk to a trusted expert from the community like your local WIC program, OB/GYN or pediatrician for resources and support.
Call 2-1-1 or talk to a trusted expert from the community like your local WIC program, OBGYN or pediatrician for resources and support.
All forms of marijuana use, such as dabbing, vaping, lotions applied to the skin, and edibles could present the same risk as smoking.
Edibles It’s easy for kids (or adults) to mistake harmless treats like candy or cookies for ones that contain marijuana. Be sure to keep any edible marijuana out of reach for young children. If you can’t tell the difference between a sweet treat and an edible, neither can your children.
Edibles take longer than smoked marijuana to have an effect — usually 30–60 minutes after being eaten. Unknowing children might not feel the effects immediately and eat large amounts of their favorite sweet treat, leading to an overdose.
Emergency Help If you think a child may have consumed edibles or any form of marijuana, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. If you think a child needs immediate medical help, call 911.
Marijuana is legal, doesn’t that make it safe?
While it is legal, marijuana may still be harmful to the health of your child while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Marijuana is natural, doesn’t that make it safe?
Even though it’s a natural product, marijuana may still cause potential health concerns for your child while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
What about using it for medical reasons?
It's important to talk to your doctor about using marijuana while pregnant or breastfeeding. There may be safer options that pose less risk to your child.
To help pregnant and breastfeeding moms understand the impact of marijuana use, and to promote awareness and access to services, providers can utilize our downloadable materials here:
Weed Free Baby
For more facts and information on marijuana: California Department of Public Health
To learn more about marijuana safety: Healthy Children
To learn more about how to prevent marijuana poisoning: Children’s Hospital Colorado