As time as evolved, parents have a better understanding about pregnancy.  Caffeine, cannabis, tobacco and more can have an impact. In France, 20% of pregnant women smoke and depending on studies, the prevalence of alcohol use is at least 15%, yet they have lower infant mortality rates. Some of the reason could be the healthcare and support around expectant mothers, but some is general lifestyle. It is is called the French paradox. While no medical professional is advocating for bad habits while expecting, it happens.  Caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol are on the avoid list, but can marijuana cause a miscarriage?

The evidence is clear smoking, alcohol and caffeine can have an effect on the fetus. Caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, when consumed during pregnancy, can all have negative effects on a fetus, including potential for low birth weight, development delays, birth defects and even miscarriage. Alcohol poses the most significant risk due to its potential for fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).

Maternal use of cigarettes, alcohol, cannabis, and caffeine were compared in a research study. The relationship between such usage and growth parameters of offspring followed up from birth to 12 and 24 months of age were examined. Of the soft drugs used, nicotine had the most pronounced effect. After adjustment for other relevant variables, nicotine use prior to and during pregnancy was negatively related to weight and head circumference at birth. Furthermore, third trimester nicotine use was a stronger predictor of decreased weight and head circumference at birth than was first trimester use. The results obtained are consistent with ponderal index (PI) literature suggesting a recovery of growth retardation in infants with a lowered PI. Average consumption of greater than one ounce of absolute alcohol per day was negatively related to birth weight and length. Neither cannabis nor caffeine use had a significant negative effect on any growth parameter.

The chemicals in cannabis, particularly tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can pass through the placenta and affect the fetus’s development. This can lead to a variety of issues. Frequent cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with lower birth weight. Cannabis use can impair neurodevelopment and increase the risk of abnormal neurological development in the fetus.

A key factor is the amount consumed. Frequent cannabis use is linked to low birth weight babies. There is also an increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth.  Another concern is may impact the baby’s brain development or cause abnormal neurological development. Long term it may affect a child’s long-term learning and behavior. 

Studies are inconclusive about the association between marijuana use and miscarriage, but it is clear regular or heavy use can have an impact.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

The Fresh Toast