Marijuana Use During Pregnancy Hazards

Marijuana Use During Pregnancy Hazards

The Impact of Marijuana Use During Pregnancy on Baby’s Brain Development

Marijuana use during pregnancy has been a topic of debate and concern for expectant mothers and healthcare professionals alike. While many assume that cannabis is safe to use, new research with monkeys suggests that it can have a significant impact on the baby’s brain development and long-term health.

The main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), has been found to alter the placental and fetal epigenome in monkeys who were given THC edibles. Epigenetic modifications can cause changes that affect the way genes work, similar to those seen in neurobehavioral conditions like autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, it is important to note that the researchers did not claim that cannabis caused these disorders.

Lead author Lyndsey Shorey-Kendrick, a computational biologist at Oregon Health & Science University’s Oregon National Primate Research Center, highlighted the misconception that cannabis is completely safe to use. “Cannabis is one of the most commonly used drugs and is widely available across the country, so there is a common perception that it’s completely safe to use,” said Shorey-Kendrick. However, the reality is that cannabis carries many health risks, especially for certain populations like pregnant women.

The use of cannabis during pregnancy is rapidly increasing, particularly during the first trimester when women may use it to alleviate the effects of morning sickness. To better understand the impacts of THC on prenatal development, researchers administered THC edibles to monkeys on a daily basis and compared the effects to a group that received a placebo. They evaluated key areas that indicate healthy prenatal development, including the placenta, fetal lungs, brain, and heart.

While it is important to note that studies on animals may not always have the same results in humans, the researchers found that THC exposure altered the epigenome. The epigenome refers to the process or compounds that affect genes and turn genetic information into observable traits. Any impact on epigenetic processes due to drug exposure is concerning, particularly during a critical developmental window like pregnancy.

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Dr. Jamie Lo, an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology at OHSU School of Medicine and co-author of the study, expressed the hope that their work can lead to a broader dialogue about the risks of cannabis use during the preconception and prenatal period. By discussing these risks more openly, healthcare providers can help improve children’s health in the long run.

The study, published in the journal Clinical Epigenetics, was supported by divisions of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the March of Dimes, and other organizations.

Understanding the Risks and Communication

The findings of this study shed light on the potential consequences of marijuana use during pregnancy. While the research was conducted on monkeys, it raises concerns about the impact of THC on human fetal development. It is crucial to understand the risks and communicate them effectively to patients who are pregnant or planning to conceive.

Currently, it is not common practice for healthcare providers to discuss cannabis use with pregnant patients or those trying to conceive. However, by having an open dialogue about the risks associated with cannabis use during the preconception and prenatal period, healthcare professionals can better support their patients in making informed decisions that promote the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Rising Trend of Cannabis Use During Pregnancy

The use of cannabis during pregnancy is on the rise, particularly during the first trimester. Many women turn to cannabis to alleviate the symptoms of morning sickness, seeking relief from nausea and vomiting. However, it is essential to consider the potential risks and hazards associated with its use.

By studying the effects of THC on prenatal development, researchers hope to raise awareness and provide valuable insights into the consequences of cannabis use during pregnancy. By understanding the potential risks, healthcare providers can educate their patients and encourage safer habits during this critical developmental window.

Implications for Long-Term Health

The alterations observed in the placental and fetal epigenome due to THC exposure have significant implications for long-term health. Epigenetic modifications can influence gene regulation and expression, potentially impacting the baby’s neurological development and overall well-being.

Although the study did not directly link cannabis use during pregnancy to neurobehavioral conditions like autism spectrum disorder and ADHD, the similarities in epigenetic changes raise concerns. This research highlights the need for further investigation into the long-term effects of cannabis use on children’s health and development.

Conclusion

The research involving monkeys provides valuable insights into the potential impacts of marijuana use during pregnancy on fetal development. THC exposure was found to alter the epigenome, which can affect gene regulation and expression, similar to common neurobehavioral conditions.

It is vital for healthcare providers to have open discussions with their pregnant patients or those planning to conceive, allowing them to make informed decisions about cannabis use. By understanding the risks associated with cannabis use during the preconception and prenatal period, healthcare professionals can better support their patients in promoting the health and future well-being of both mother and baby.

As the trend of cannabis use during pregnancy continues to rise, it is crucial to conduct further research to fully understand the long-term effects on children’s health and development. Education and awareness are key in empowering individuals to make choices that protect their own well-being and that of their future children.