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Important things to know about marijuana use in the postpartum period

Even though marijuana (cannabis) is one of the most commonly used drugs—and it’s legal for recreational and medical use in many states—there are some important risks to consider if you’re using marijuana postpartum. And no matter what life stage you’re in, if you use marijuana, it’s a good idea to check in with yourself periodically to make sure you’re managing a healthy balance. 

What we know about using marijuana postpartum

Here’s what the research tells us about how a parent’s marijuana use can impact infants and children:

  • Marijuana affects breast milk. We know that chemicals from marijuana can enter breast milk, but there is not enough data to know the impact of those chemicals on infants. Experts suggest avoiding marijuana if you are breastfeeding. 
  • Second-hand smoke can be dangerous. We don’t have studies on the impact of second-hand smoke on the developing brains of infants. However, studies of adolescents exposed to marijuana show that it has a negative effect on their attention and memory. 
  • Marijuana can increase a parent’s risk-taking. Sometimes, people who use marijuana take more risks than they would otherwise, such as driving while under the influence. This can pose a threat to both parents and children.
  • Accidental ingestion can be harmful. Infants and young children who accidentally ingest marijuana are more likely to need hospitalization because their bodies are smaller, and their symptoms tend to be more severe. Marijuana needs to be kept well out of reach.

It’s also worth considering a few of the risks of marijuana use for your own health:

  • Studies show that using marijuana can have negative effects on a person’s memory, attention, and decision-making, which could interfere with your ability to care for your baby 
  • Smoking and vaping marijuana can damage your lungs. 
  • Marijuana concentrates may contain additives that haven’t been studied for safety.
  • Synthetic cannabinoids can be more powerful than marijuana, and may have dangerous side effects.
  • There aren’t any federal safety standards for state-based marijuana dispensaries.
  • Marijuana may impact how prescription drugs work in your body. If you are taking medication, talk with your doctor about whether marijuana could impact your treatment.

Thinking through your relationship with marijuana

If you’ve been asking yourself whether you’re using too much marijuana, it’s time to take a deeper look at how the drug is impacting you and the people around you. Here are four questions to help you think about your use:

1. Would it be easy to stop using marijuana for a while?

If you’re concerned about your marijuana use, try stopping for a bit to see how you feel. If you can’t stop, or if you have withdrawal symptoms when you do, that may be a sign of marijuana dependence. Typical marijuana withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, irritability, anger or aggression, disturbed sleep/dreaming, depressed mood and loss of appetite.

2. Do you sometimes use more than you meant to?

If you sometimes use more marijuana than you’d planned, or if you’re using marijuana more often than you intend to, it may mean you’ve developed a dependency. Sticking to your regular usage is a sign that you are managing your use.

3. Do you organize your days around using marijuana?

Do you spend a lot of time thinking about when you’ll have the next chance to use marijuana? Or do you avoid activities that would get in the way of using? Have you ever put yourself or your family at risk because of your marijuana use? Any yeses here could be cause for concern.

4. Do you argue with friends or family about your marijuana use?

If friends or family have come to you with concerns, this could be a sign that you’re developing a dependency. If you and your partner argue about the cost of your marijuana use, or if it makes it hard for you to get the usual things done around the house or to communicate well, these can be red flags, too.

If any of your answers concern you, please reach out to your healthcare provider for support. While many people who choose to use marijuana find a good balance, the CDC reports that about three in ten people who use marijuana may have a cannabis use disorder. Your healthcare provider can help you find the support you need to quit.


Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team

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