Urgent
Important information for Albertans
AGLC is taking the COVID-19 coronavirus matter seriously. Please visit AGLC.ca/COVID19 for the latest updates.
Health Effects
← BackIt’s safest not to use cannabis while pregnant or breastfeeding
Being aware of the potentially harmful effects of cannabis on pregnancy and a baby’s development is important. Research still hasn’t given us all the answers about the effects of THC or CBD on pregnancy and a baby’s development. For now, the safest choice is to avoid using cannabis while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Frequent cannabis use during pregnancy is associated with negative outcomes for your baby and increased risk of early labour.
Babies who were exposed to cannabis before birth may experience:
- problems understanding, learning, remembering
- hyperactivity, inattentiveness or impulsive behaviour
- increased risk of depression or anxiety
Early labour can result in lower birth weight, breathing difficulties, temperature irregularities, hospitalization and/or potential cognitive problems for the baby when compared to full-term infants.
Chemicals from cannabis pass into breast milk and are then absorbed by the baby
THC is stored in the same body fat tissues that produce milk and can stay in this tissue for days or even weeks. Dumping your breast milk the day after consumption will not prevent your baby from receiving any consumed cannabis.