Cannabis

Cannabis is a broad term that describes products or chemical compounds that come from the cannabis plant species. It is commonly known as marijuana or weed. Cannabis is legal in much of the United States and use may be medical or recreational.

Whether medical or recreational, cannabis use during pregnancy should be avoided. Cannabis use increases the risk of gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. Use also may increase the risk of placental abruption, a condition where the placenta separates from the uterus too early.

Cannabis crosses the placenta and has been linked to higher rates of low birth weight, preterm birth and need for admission to the neonatal intensive care unit.