In this 56th podcast episode, the host examines the upsurge of marijuana use in pregnancy and breastfeeding, emphasizing its legality in 24 states and resulting misconceptions about safety. Despite common perceptions, marijuana poses risks to fetal development and children’s future neurobehavioral growth. Research findings suggest that prenatal exposure may lead to low birth weight and neurodevelopmental issues, while THC in breast milk could affect infants’ brain development. The episode stresses the importance of education for pregnant women and healthcare workers, with the goal to abstain from marijuana use to protect child development.
