How Could Marijuana Use Affect Your Unborn Baby?
In the very few studies available, there appears to be an increase in the incidence of premature labor and low birthweight. In cases in which pot had been tainted with a stimulant (cocaine, for example), there was an increased risk for dangerously fast labors (less than three hours) and for placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterine wall).
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that research has shown that some babies born to women who abused marijuana during their pregnancies display altered responses to visual stimuli, increased tremulousness (trembling or shaking), and a high-pitched cry -- any of which may indicate neurological problems in development. During the preschool years, marijuana-exposed children have been observed to perform tasks involving sustained attention and memory more poorly than nonexposed kids do. Then, in the school years, these kids of pot smokers are more likely to exhibit deficits in problem-solving skills, memory and the ability to remain attentive.
In short, marijuana during pregnancy (including secondhand pot smoke) should be viewed the same as any other illicit drug, and be avoided at all costs.
