With the increasing legalization and availability of cannabis in various forms across the nation, health care providers are growing more concerned about its implications for children. New research from Nationwide Children’s Hospital adds to the growing body of evidence indicating that exposure to cannabis before birth can have adverse effects on children.
A study recently published in JAMA Pediatrics found that prenatal exposure to cannabis is linked to poorer cognitive abilities and behaviors in early childhood, including impulse control, attention span, planning skills, and greater aggression. These factors are crucial for how children engage in school and socialize with peers.
“While cannabis is a natural substance, its use during pregnancy carries numerous risks,” emphasized Sarah Keim, PhD, the principal investigator at the Center for Biobehavioral Health at Nationwide Children’s and the study’s lead author. “Some women may resort to cannabis to alleviate common pregnancy-related issues like nausea, sleep disturbances, and stress. This is not advisable. It’s essential to talk to a health care provider about safer alternatives to manage these symptoms during pregnancy.”
The researchers conducted various evaluations, which included collecting feedback from parents on their child’s typical behaviors and assessing skills related to impulse control, attention, problem-solving, and emotional regulation in preschoolers. The findings revealed that children who were exposed to cannabis faced challenges in impulse regulation, attention, planning, and exhibited more aggressive behaviors during observations in a play laboratory setting.
“Our results were expected— they corroborate and enhance the long-standing evidence from earlier studies,” Dr. Keim noted. “With our more modern and diverse sample of women and children and considering the significantly higher potency of cannabis today compared to the past, this study reinforces earlier research and supports current clinical guidelines for pregnant patients.”
Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists advise against cannabis use during pregnancy due to potential health risks for both mothers and their children.
