Cannabis basics and your baby
- Danielle Matthiessen
- Jun 7
- 3 min read
As a program specialist I am not a health professional, but I have a passion for sharing evidence-based cannabis information.
I have been working in the social responsibility area in a public education role for 18 years. Before AGLC, I focused on disordered drug use (addiction), harm reduction and recovery. My education is in the social sciences and led me to work centered around education and informed choice. I found a creative spark while taking the Science of Cannabis professional learning certificate program from McMaster University.
Cannabis is still a controversial subject, especially in the realm of pregnancy and parenting. There are many issues around cannabis and pregnancy, such as fetal development and pregnancy outcomes with maternal use of cannabinoids, breastfeeding considerations and the differences between medical and non-medical cannabis.
So, let’s start from the beginning - the Ednocannabionoid System (ECS) and how cannabis interacts with your body and how it can affect your baby’s development.
Cannabis contains phytocannabinoids, the two major ones are THC and CBD. These phytocannabinoids are similar to the endocannabinoids our bodies produce naturally. This similarity is what allows phytocannabinoids to interact with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the brain and body. These receptors, called CB1 and CB2, are activated when cannabis is consumed.
CB1 receptors are in the brain and when activated by THC, produce that intoxicated high feeling. If you have seen someone experience cannabis for the first time, you will almost always see a shift in their mood because of the THC interacting with CB1 receptors.
These receptors are crucial for mood regulation. While THC is known for its dramatic effects, CBD also interacts with CB1 receptors. Research indicates that CBD counteracts THC, reducing its absorption. Due to CBD's ability to mitigate psychotropic effects, products with a balanced ratio of THC and CBD are commonly available for medical use. On the other hand, recreational users often seek products with higher THC levels and lower CBD content to enhance the intoxicating experience.
CB2 receptors are mostly located outside the brain and help regulate our immune system. Many medical studies are exploring the impact of CBD on the CB2 receptors due to their anti-inflammatory properties and effects on pain management.
With the ECS being spread throughout our body and playing such a key role in many functions, it is amazing it wasn’t discovered until the early ‘90s! Now a whole new field of exploration has opened up. Researchers have examined the development of the ECS and how it occurs during fetal development. The ECS has been shown to play a role in early embryo development, prenatal brain development and even a role after birth as a baby learns to suckle.
The ECS is a complex system that helps keep our bodies balanced in several ways and this important regulator for our bodies develops during pregnancy and after.
Evidence has also shown that cannabinoids do cross the placental barrier, meaning if mom uses cannabis so does the baby. Therefore, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before considering cannabis use during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your health, lifestyle and circumstances.
Feel free to reach out to me should you have any questions regarding non-medical cannabis at cannabissense@aglc.ca. I look forward to connecting with you again in the fall and supporting you through your parenting journey.
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