The safety of cannabidiol (CBD) during pregnancy is being seriously questioned by new scientific research. Despite being widely used for not causing psychoactive effects, the cannabis derivative may not be as harmless as believed, especially for pregnant women. Recent studies indicate that exposure to the compound during pregnancy may have significant adverse implications for the brain and behavioral development of offspring.

Scientific investigation and findings

The studies, conducted by Dr. Daniela Lezzi and doctoral student Alba Caceres Rodriguez, both from the University of Marseille in France, were presented at the 2024 Forum of the Federation of European Neuroscience Societies (FENS). The research involved the subcutaneous administration of controlled doses of CBD (3 mg/kg) in pregnant female mice from the fifth to the eighteenth day of gestation.

The results were revealing. Offspring exposed to CBD during pregnancy exhibited altered behaviors in adulthood, including increased activity in new environments and enhanced physical contacts among individuals. The exposure also affected neurons in the insular cortex (CI) of the brain, a crucial area for emotional and sensory processing.

Dr. Paula Dall'Stella, a physician specializing in integrative medicine with extensive knowledge of the medicinal use of cannabis in Brazil, also expressed concerns about the use of CBD during pregnancy. She recently stated that "the use of cannabis during pregnancy is not recommended" due to the lack of conclusive evidence regarding its safety and the potential risks involved.

Need for further research

Although the studies were conducted in rats, the implications for humans are concerning, especially considering that "CBD can cross the placenta and be present in breast milk," Daniela emphasizes.  

Professor Richard Roche from Maynooth University in Ireland highlighted the need for more investigations: "Just because cannabidiol is legal and available in most countries does not mean it is safe for women to consume during pregnancy. However, more research is needed to be certain about the potential effects on humans."

In light of the new evidence, it is imperative for pregnant women to be cautious when considering the use of CBD. While the therapeutic benefits of cannabis and its derivatives are widely promoted, the safety during pregnancy is still unproven. Healthcare professionals and patients should base their decisions on robust and up-to-date scientific evidence to ensure maternal and fetal safety. 

References: 

PS03-27AM-619. "The influence of prenatal exposure to CBD on group dynamics and social behaviors in adult offspring," Ms. Alba Caceres Rodriguez, Poster Session 03 - Late-breaking Abstracts, Thursday, June 27, 09:30-13:00, Poster Area: https://fens2024.abstractserver.com/program/#/details/presentations/4793 .

PS03-27AM-602. "Understanding the consequences of prenatal exposure to CBD on insular cortex neurons: sex-specific alterations and loss of sub-regional functional differentiation," Dr. Daniela Iezzi, Poster Session 03 - Late-breaking Abstracts, Thursday, June 27, 09:30-13:00, Poster Area: https://fens2024.abstractserver.com/program/#/details/presentations/4842

Bhatia D, Battula S, Mikulich-Gilbertson S, Sakai J, Hammond D, "Use of cannabidiol-only product in pregnancy in the United States and Canada: results from the international cannabis policy study." Obstet Gynecol. May 9, 2024. doi: 10.1097/AOG.000000000005603.

Lezzi et al., "In utero exposure to cannabidiol disrupts early life behaviors in a sex-specific manner." Transl Psychiatry. December 5, 2022;12(1):501. doi: 10.1038/s41398-022-02271-8