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Maternal, Child, & Adolescent Health


Public Charge: What You Need to Know


MCAH Programs


Contact Information
Los Angeles County
Department of Public Health
Maternal, Child, & Adolescent Health Programs

600 S. Commonwealth Ave.,
8th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90005
Tel: (213) 639-6400
Fax: (213) 639-1034
Marijuana During Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

For Families

Consuming marijuana (weed, pot, cannabis) in any form (smoking, vaping, edibles, drinks, etc.) can affect the health of your baby and is not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or who plan to become pregnant soon.

  • Research has shown that marijuana use during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight babies. Low birth weight means babies who are born too small and have increased risk of health problems, especially in the first year of the child's life.

  • Research has also shown that marijuana use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding can harm the growth and development of your baby’s brain.

  • Marijuana can reach your baby in three ways:

    • through your bloodstream during pregnancy

    • through your breast milk

    • through secondhand smoke that enters the baby's lungs

 

  • No amount of marijuana is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, even if it is legal in California. Talk to your healthcare provider about any questions you have about marijuana

 

  • Breastfeeding is important for the health of both mom and baby. For more information, or to find breastfeeding support, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - click on each question to see the response

What is Marijuana?

I’ve heard marijuana is legal. What does legal mean?

Marijuana is "natural." Doesn't that mean it's safe?

I was told that marijuana is recommended to treat nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Is this true?

What are alternatives to marijuana?

I heard vaping marijuana is generally better than smoking when pregnant or breastfeeding. Is that true?

Can't I pump and dump?

My partner or other family members use marijuana. How can I make sure my baby and I are safe?

Helpful Resources
  • Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women and Cannabis Fact Sheet (PDF)  English and Spanish
  • Mother to Baby - Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy Fact Sheet (PDF)  English and Spanish

For Providers


 
 
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