Cannabidiol (CBD), derived from the cannabis plant, has gained widespread attention for its potential therapeutic properties. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-intoxicating, contributing to its growing popularity for various health concerns. However, its increasing use raises questions about safety, particularly for vulnerable populations like pregnant individuals.
Understanding the Research Imperative
Many expectant mothers consider CBD for managing common pregnancy-related symptoms like nausea, anxiety, pain, and sleep disturbances. This trend highlights a significant need for comprehensive research into its effects during gestation, as introducing any substance during pregnancy poses implications for both maternal health and fetal development. The human endocannabinoid system, which interacts with cannabinoids like CBD, plays a role in physiological processes involved in pregnancy and fetal growth. A lack of extensive data on CBD’s specific effects on this delicate balance has necessitated focused scientific inquiry.
Navigating the Research Landscape
Research into CBD use during pregnancy is an evolving field. Much current evidence stems from preclinical studies, primarily using animal models, which allow for controlled investigations into biological mechanisms and potential outcomes. These studies are fundamental for identifying potential risks before human trials, which present ethical challenges due to the vulnerability of pregnant individuals and developing fetuses.
Emerging human observations often rely on self-reporting, which can introduce confounding factors and make it difficult to isolate CBD’s precise effects. The overall body of robust human data remains limited, emphasizing that scientific understanding of CBD’s impact during pregnancy is still under development. Challenges also include the variability and potential mislabeling of commercial CBD products, which may contain undeclared THC or contaminants like heavy metals and pesticides.
Emerging Study Findings
Recent studies, predominantly in animal models, are shedding light on the potential effects of CBD exposure during pregnancy. Research indicates that CBD can cross the placenta and accumulate in fetal tissues, including the brain, raising concerns about its influence on development. A February 2025 study found that oral use of both THC and CBD during early to mid-pregnancy in mouse models was associated with impaired fetal growth and changes in placental development, potentially hindering nutrient and oxygen delivery to the fetus.
Further research suggests long-term consequences for offspring behavior and neurological function. A September 2023 study indicated that CBD use during pregnancy might harm fetal brain development, posing a cognitive risk, as CBD accumulates in the fetal brain and interacts with receptors important for development. This research found that oral consumption of high-dose CBD impaired problem-solving in female mice. Other studies have observed behavioral changes in offspring, including altered aggression, activity levels, and learning ability, persisting into adulthood.
Beyond neurological effects, some studies highlight other physiological impacts. Exposure to CBD during pregnancy has been linked to early deficits in cardiac function in young male offspring in mouse models, with potential long-term implications for heart health. Another study noted that moderate CBD exposure could lead to glucose intolerance in male offspring, suggesting broad metabolic impacts. These findings indicate that CBD, even without THC, might not be without consequence for the developing offspring.
Current Public Health Guidance
Major health organizations strongly advise against CBD use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) explicitly recommends avoiding CBD, THC, and marijuana in any form while pregnant or lactating. This recommendation stems from a lack of comprehensive research on CBD’s effects on the developing fetus, pregnant individual, or breastfed baby.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) similarly discourages the use of cannabis products, including CBD, during preconception, pregnancy, and lactation periods. ACOG emphasizes that no amount of cannabis use has been established as safe during pregnancy. Both organizations highlight the concern that CBD products may be contaminated with THC, pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, or fungi, which could pose additional risks. Healthcare providers are encouraged to discuss these potential risks with patients and explore alternative, safer therapies for pregnancy symptoms.