Marijuana Use and Your Baby

Currently, possession or use of marijuana is illegal in Nebraska, even for medicinal purposes. Consuming marijuana (cannabis, weed, pot, etc.) can affect the health of your baby and is not recommended for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, who plan to become pregnant soon, or are caring for a child.

How marijuana affects your baby.

No matter how you use marijuana (smoke, vape, eat, or drink), the active ingredient, THC (teterahydrocannabinol), will reach your baby in three ways:

1. through your bloodstream and via the placenta
2. through your breastmilk ("pump and dump" doesn't work. THC is stored in fat cells and is slowly released over several weeks, so it stays in your breastmilk.)
3. through second hand smoke that enters your baby's lungs. 

Marijuana can harm your baby.

Research shows that if you use marijuana while you are pregnant or breastfeeding:

• Your baby's birth weight may be low. This may result in more health problems, especially in the first year of life. 
• The growth and development of your baby's brain may be harmed. 

No amount of marijuana is safe.

Leading doctors' organizations such as the American College of Obstetrician's and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that:

• If you already use marijuana and are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant soon, discontinue use. Talk to your primary care provider about alternative treatment options, if needed.
• Don't breathe cannabis smoke if you are pregnant. It is bad both for you and your baby because, like tobacco smoke, it lowers your oxygen levels, introduces toxins into your system and harms your lungs. 

Marijuana use impacts your ability to care for your baby.

• Marijuana can make you sleepy when you're high, and this may affect how you interact with your child.
• You may not be fully aware of your infant's basic needs such as when they are hungry, need a diaper change, or just want to be cuddled.
• Opportunities to play or read to your baby may be missed. These activities teach children about their world. 
• Do not drive high or let your baby ride in a car if the driver is high.