As we discover more about marijuana’s overwhelming health benefits, many are asking: is it safe to use CBD products while pregnant? Mary J is a proven remedy for many of pregnancy’s difficulties, from depression to pain management. But can marijuana negatively affect a baby’s development?

The Endocannabinoid System

This naturally-occurring network of proteins and receptors maintains homeostasis within the human body. Named after the cannabinoids found in marijuana that lead to its discovery, the endocannabinoid system regulates everything from mood to pain management.

These receptors have evolved to respond to the cannabinoids found in the human body and in weed. This means that marijuana is an effective tool for regulating one’s mood, inflammation in the body and more.

Marijuana’s ability to affect the endocannabinoid system also poses a potential risk. This biological network also plays a crucial role in a fetus’ development. Specifically, it creates neurons and builds brain pathways in the neonatal brain. Another cannabinoid threatens to compliment this already complex process.

The Dangers of THC while pregnant

Certain cannabinoids risk disrupting a fetus’ brain development through interference in the endocannabinoid system.

THC, a psychoactive chemical compound found in weed, is one of them. Studies show that THC can interrupt the formation of neuronal networks and result in nervous system-related birth defects.

The use of THC while pregnant can also negatively impact a baby’s birth rate. Healthcare providers advise against using THC while pregnant due to these risks.

What does CBD do?

THC may have negative impacts on a baby’s birth but CBD functions differently from THC. This has lead researchers to wonder, is it safe to use CBD products while pregnant?

Unlike THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning that it doesn’t get you ‘high’ like THC. CBD’s appeal is medicinal: It can function as a painkiller, reduce inflammation, fight nausea, and treat mood disorders.

It has also been used effectively as a treatment for arthritis, epilepsy, and has been linked to fighting cancer-causing cells in the body. All of these characteristics make CBD the perfect natural alternative to synthetic drugs, especially for pregnant women.

How do I use it?

The safest way to ingest CBD during pregnancy is an oil, lotion, or capsule made 100% from hemp extracts. Not only are these products legal, they’re widely available even in states where weed isn’t legal.

Avoid products advertised as “CBD rich,” which means that they have an equal amount of THC and CBD. Pregnant women are better off avoiding anything that may have even trace amounts of THC.

Additionally, smoking and products with potentially hazardous chemicals should be avoided during pregnancy. This means that it’s best to avoid dabbing or edibles that you aren’t making yourself. Like everything, the safest way to use CBD is in its most organic form, especially if you’re pregnant.

Final Hit: Is It Safe To Use CBD Products While Pregnant?

Today, CBD use during pregnancy is a controversial topic. To the question, is it safe to use CBD products while pregnant, some say that not enough research has been conducted.

Many, however, argue that CBD products (that are free of THC) are an ideal organic solution to relieve the physical and mental strain of pregnancy. Since we’re only in the first stages of cannabis research, the safety of marijuana-derived products can’t be ensured.

We can say that CBD use and accessibility is growing rapidly, and many women are choosing to experience pregnancy with a little help from hemp.