CBD and Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Guide

Pregnancy is a time of significant physical and emotional change for women. It is also when many women look for natural ways to manage the discomforts that can arise during pregnancy, such as morning sickness, fatigue, and muscle aches. One realistic option that has gained popularity in recent years is cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound in the cannabis plant.

In this article, we will explore the potential benefits and risks of using CBD during pregnancy. We will also discuss the current state of research on this topic and provide recommendations for pregnant women considering using CBD.

What are the Potential Benefits of Using CBD During Pregnancy?

There is limited research on CBD during pregnancy, so it's essential to be cautious when considering its use. However, some studies have suggested that CBD may benefit pregnant women.

One of the most common complaints during pregnancy is morning sickness, which can range from mild to severe and make it difficult for expectant mothers to eat and drink enough to stay healthy. Some studies have suggested that CBD may effectively reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.

CBD may also have pain-relieving properties, which could benefit pregnant women who experience aches and pains due to the physical changes that occur during pregnancy.

Additionally, some research has suggested that CBD may have anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects. Pregnancy can be stressful for many women, and managing anxiety can be necessary for the mother and the developing baby.

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What are the Risks of Using CBD During Pregnancy?

As with any substance, there are potential risks associated with using CBD during pregnancy. One of the main concerns is limited research on the safety of using CBD during pregnancy.

More so, the long-term effects of CBD on the developing baby are not fully understood. While some studies have suggested that CBD may be safe during pregnancy, more research is needed to confirm these findings.

It's also important to note that marijuana (which contains both CBD and THC) during pregnancy has been linked to several adverse outcomes. These include low birth weight, preterm delivery, and other developmental issues. It's unclear whether these risks are also associated with using CBD alone. Still, it's essential to consider the potential risks.

What Does the Research Say?

As mentioned, there is limited research on the use of CBD during pregnancy. However, a few studies have looked at the potential risks and benefits of using CBD while expecting.

One study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that CBD effectively reduced anxiety and improved sleep in pregnant women with generalised anxiety disorder. However, the study was small and more research is needed to confirm these findings.

The studies used to source this information can be found here:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7480724/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6632091/