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She continued, “Chemicals are viewed a bit more suspiciously and that included prescription medications.”

Little is known about the effects of maternal cannabis consumption on fetal development. There were four major studies in the 80s and 90s that indicated that there may be a link between cannabis consumption and long-term neurocognitive effects, but there is not enough data. Some researchers say the change in potency between the weed of yesteryear and now could render those results irrelevant in 2019.

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The study’s major findings include that women “1) reported higher amounts of marijuana use prior to pregnancy and attempted to reduce their use once they realized they were pregnant; 2) used marijuana to help with nausea and appetite changes during pregnancy or to improve mood; 3) described marijuana as “natural” and “safe” compared to other substances such as alcohol, tobacco, other recreational drugs, and prescribed medications; 4) had conflicting opinions regarding whether marijuana was addictive; and 5) were uncertain but had some concerns regarding potential risks of prenatal marijuana use.”

Chang reported that many subjects were reluctant to broach the topic of cannabis use with their physicians, fearing the risk of being reported to child services, a risk that she says is very real. Majority of the healthcare workers in the U.S. are required to report any potential in-utero exposure to illegal substances. Such exposure is considered a form of child abuse in many states, which Chang says can be a major deterrent for women wishing to have an honest conversation and accurate information about cannabis use.