There’s a whirl of excitement that envelops a woman the moment she learns she’s expecting. It’s a beautiful journey filled with joy, anticipation but also some degree of discomfort stemming from nausea, body aches, and anxiety. There’s been a growing interest in the potential benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) during pregnancy, with many touting it as a natural remedy for these pregnancy-related discomforts. In this guide, we will take an in-depth look at CBD, its potential effects during pregnancy, and the current recommendations from experts in the field.
Understanding Cannabidiol (CBD)
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s one of over 100 cannabinoids but holds a unique spot because, unlike its cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it’s not psychoactive. This means it doesn’t cause the ‘high’ associated with cannabis use.
The popularity of CBD has grown dramatically due to its potential health benefits, including supporting mental well-being, promoting restful sleep, and easing physical discomfort. It’s derived from the hemp plant and comes in different forms, including oils, capsules, topical creams, and more recently, CBD-infused foods.
CBD and Pregnancy: What the Research Says
Research on the safety and efficacy of CBD during pregnancy is limited. Most studies conducted thus far have not distinguished between CBD and THC, making it difficult to draw definitive conclusions on the impact of CBD alone.
However, a study published in the Journal of Perinatal Medicine found preliminary evidence suggesting CBD might alleviate anxiety and depression in pregnant women without adverse effects on the baby. But, these results are based on a small sample size, and more comprehensive research is needed.
Professional Medical Advice
Currently, due to the lack of definitive data, professional health bodies like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists advise pregnant women to avoid using marijuana and, by extension, its derivatives, including CBD. Similarly, the UK’s National Health Service maintains the same stance, recommending against the use of CBD during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data.
The Potential Risks
Even though CBD is non-intoxicating, there are potential risks involved in its use during pregnancy. Some of these include potential liver damage, interactions with other medications, and concerns about quality control in the largely unregulated market for CBD products.
Considerations For Expecting Mothers
If you’re expecting and considering using CBD, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider first. They can help weigh the potential benefits against the possible risks and guide you on the best course.
If you decide to try CBD, opt for high-quality products from reputable manufacturers that use third-party lab testing to ensure safety and purity. You can also consider other safer, more studied alternatives for managing discomforts during pregnancy, like yoga, meditation, and acupuncture.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the anecdotal benefits of CBD may be enticing, expecting mothers should exercise caution due to the lack of conclusive research on the effects of CBD during pregnancy. Always consult a medical professional and weigh the potential benefits against the risks before embarking on any health-related endeavour during pregnancy.
References
NHS. (2021). Drugs and pregnancy.
World Health Organisation. Cannabidiol (CBD) Pre-Review Report. Expert Committee on Drug Dependence.
External Links
WebMD – CBD oil: All the rage, but is it safe and effective?
Harvard Medical School – Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don’t
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