January is National Birth Defects Awareness Month, with “Every Journey Matters” as this year’s theme.  According to information from the New York State Office of Cannabis Management website at cannabis.ny.gov, one critical area to consider is that of avoiding harmful substances during pregnancy, such as cannabis.  Based on studies of both human and animal subjects, leading medical organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that anyone who is contemplating pregnancy, is pregnant, or is breastfeeding should stop using cannabis.  When mommy uses any substance, so does baby. Chemicals in cannabis pass through the mother and can harm a baby’s development.  Included is cannabis smoke, which has many of the same chemicals as tobacco smoke, which are known to be harmful to both mother and baby. 

Cannabis purchased from the illicit market, not from a licensed dispensary, can pose additional risks as it is not tested or regulated.  These products can potentially be contaminated with mold, fungus, pesticides, or other chemicals that can be dangerous if consumed.  Potency levels may also not be labeled or labeled accurately.

Expectant mothers who take medical cannabis are strongly encouraged to talk with their health care provider about the possible risks/benefits during pregnancy, and ask about other medications or treatments which may have more pregnancy-specific safety data.  This is also suggested for women experiencing morning sickness, as there have been no clinical trials or studies to prove that cannabis is an effective way to treat morning sickness. 

Benefits of breastfeeding are vast for both mother and baby.  For more information on cannabis and the impact on breastfeeding, view the Breastfeeding  Ground Rounds entitled Marijuana Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding, hosted by the SUNY University at Albany School of Public Health.

Let’s support our future generation of babies by encouraging potential mothers to choose a healthy lifestyle free of substances!  Be an active participant in this important initiative by visiting the National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) website for resources.  For assistance with a substance use disorder, call the Allegany Council on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse’s Clinic at 585-593-6738.   

Remember, Prevention Works!