Pregnant Women Should Not Use Cannabis, New Medical Guidelines Say

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has issued new guidelines discouraging the use of cannabis among pregnant women. The medical society cautions that marijuana use during pregnancy is associated with increased risks of adverse birth outcomes, such as low birth weight and preterm birth. Additionally, research suggests that prenatal cannabis exposure may lead to developmental delays and cognitive impairments in children. The guidelines emphasize that the potential risks of cannabis use during pregnancy outweigh any perceived benefits. ACOG recommends that healthcare providers counsel their patients on the importance of abstaining from marijuana use throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. The society also calls for further research to better understand the long-term effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on child development. Overall, the new guidelines underscore the need for healthcare professionals to provide evidence-based guidance to pregnant women and promote the well-being of both the mother and the developing child.