A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Georgia College of Public Health has found that approximately 6% of pregnant women reported using marijuana in the past month. Alarmingly, many of these women did not perceive any health risks associated with its use during pregnancy. The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced education about marijuana’s effects on maternal and fetal health, according to lead researcher Mohammad Rifat Haider.
Published in The American Journal on Addictions, the study analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, which included responses from 4,338 pregnant mothers. Among these participants, 5.7% indicated they had used marijuana within the previous month.
Notably, 70.9% of those who reported marijuana use perceived little to no risk associated with its consumption during pregnancy, despite existing research linking marijuana to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight, premature birth, and neurodevelopmental issues.
Haider, an assistant professor of health policy and management, highlighted a troubling disparity in perceptions of marijuana compared to other substances. While the negative impacts of alcohol and illegal drugs during pregnancy are well-documented, marijuana’s reputation is often mixed. It is sometimes regarded as beneficial for patients dealing with cancer-related nausea, yet studies indicate that continued use can have harmful effects.
“The evidence clearly points to negative effects during pregnancy,” Haider stated.
Expert Recommendations for Managing Nausea
Haider advises that pregnant women experiencing nausea should consult their obstetricians rather than resorting to medical marijuana. He emphasized the importance of discussing prescription medications that can effectively manage nausea and vomiting.
Moreover, healthcare providers need to be equipped to dispel common misconceptions regarding marijuana’s effects on pregnancy-related symptoms.
“With the availability of medical marijuana in legal states, it’s crucial that we implement solid policies to educate pregnant women about the potential dangers of marijuana use,” he warned.
The study also identified a correlation between marijuana use and mental health issues, including major depressive episodes. Haider noted that individuals with unmet health needs are often at a higher risk for substance use disorders.
These findings highlight an urgent need for improved educational initiatives focused on marijuana use during pregnancy. Healthcare providers should be prepared to screen for previous substance use, including marijuana, and to inform patients about the associated risks, particularly in states where medical marijuana is legal.
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