Talking about cannabis in pregnancy is delving into a delicate topic, where science, health, and emotions intertwine. For many women, pregnancy is marked by challenges such as intense nausea, pain, and anxiety, situations that raise doubts about therapeutic alternatives. 

But to what extent can cannabis in pregnancy be an ally, and when does it become a risk?

In #episode35 of Deusa Cast, the gynecologist obstetrician and cannabis therapist Mariana Prado brought a welcoming and cautious view on the subject. Her speech adds to a wave of new studies and international recommendations, as seen in international news, and to the ongoing debate in Brazil, raised by specialists and by the Sechat Portal.

Mariana Prado's perspective: embracing while being cautious

During the episode, Mariana Prado highlighted that each pregnancy is unique and deserves an individualized approach. “It's not possible to answer whether the use of cannabis in pregnancy is simply good or bad. It is necessary to analyze each case, with multidisciplinary monitoring, understanding the risks, the patient's symptoms, and always prioritizing the baby's safety,” she stated.

She points out that THC crosses the placenta and can impact the nervous system in the fetus's formation. Therefore, she reinforces that the safest conduct is still to avoid use during pregnancy, except in very specific situations and closely monitored by doctors.

What international studies say about Cannabis in Pregnancy

In a recent publication, the New York Times echoed a research review that reinforces concerns about cannabis in pregnancy:

• Using cannabis in pregnancy nearly doubles the chance of low birth weight;
• There is up to a 50% increase in the risk of premature birth;
• Babies exposed in utero have a 57% higher chance of being born “small for gestational age”;
• There were also indications of an increased risk of neonatal death.

These data led US medical entities, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, to reinforce strict guidelines discouraging any use of cannabis in pregnancy.

Brazil: an ongoing debate

Here, the conversation has already reached medical offices and specialized press. In 2023, we published an article on the risk x benefit of cannabis in pregnancy, pointing out that use can bring alterations in neurological development and fetal growth.

In our Youtube channel, doctor Paula Dall’Stella, is categorical when talking about the topic: “Using cannabis during pregnancy is not recommended,” she states. For her, the lack of robust studies defining doses, long-term effects, and safety for the fetus makes the scenario of uncertainties too large to support any generalized prescription. Therefore, she adopts the precautionary principle: “The safest path is to avoid use during pregnancy, except in very specific situations and always with rigorous medical monitoring,” she emphasizes.

Cannabis in pregnancy: pros and cons

The use of cannabis in pregnancy is still surrounded by uncertainties. Research points to possible benefits reported by some pregnant women, but also significant risks documented by science, reinforcing the need for caution.

Possible benefits: reports suggest relief from severe nausea (hyperemesis), control of chronic pain, reduction of anxiety, and stimulation of appetite in women with low weight gain.

Main risks: evidence indicates a higher chance of low birth weight, premature birth, alterations in fetal neurodevelopment, increased neonatal mortality in some studies, and the absence of established safe doses, especially due to the risk of THC accumulation in the fetus.

An invitation to listen

The debate about cannabis in pregnancy is an invitation to listen. On one side, women seeking relief in a vulnerable phase; on the other, doctors relying on still fragile evidence, but with important warning signs.

Dr. Mariana Prado's speech reminds us that empathy and science do not need to walk separately: it is possible to embrace doubts and sufferings, while reinforcing the importance of caution.

Until new studies bring clearer answers, the majority recommendation continues to be to avoid the use of cannabis during pregnancy, always prioritizing alternatives with proven safety.