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Cannabidiol (CBD), the non-psychoactive compound in cannabis, has gained popularity in recent years as a remedy for a variety of conditions, from anxiety to sleep disturbances. For many pregnant women, it is seen as a safer alternative to pharmaceutical medications for managing symptoms such as nausea and anxiety. However, despite its growing use, little research has been conducted on the effects of CBD during pregnancy.
A new study from McMaster University sheds light on the potential risks of using CBD during pregnancy, suggesting that it could be linked to impaired fetal growth and other developmental issues. The study, published in eBioMedicine on February 5, 2025, reveals concerning findings regarding both CBD and THC—the primary psychoactive ingredient in cannabis—when consumed orally during pregnancy.
Tyrah Ritchie, a researcher in the Medical Sciences program at McMaster University, led the study. She notes that while CBD is often perceived as a safer option, especially when consumed orally, this perception is not backed by sufficient evidence. “Our study is shedding light on the fact that there’s a possibility that CBD might also be harmful during pregnancy,” she says.
The research, conducted in collaboration with Professor Ali Ashkar at McMaster’s Department of Medicine, focused on animal models where cannabis oil was administered to pregnant mice. The findings indicate that both CBD and THC can disrupt fetal growth, potentially leading to smaller babies, and affect the development of the placenta—particularly the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the fetus. This disruption could lead to intrauterine growth restriction, potentially affecting the baby’s development long term.
“We found that both THC and CBD can disrupt a type of immune cell, the Uterine NK Cell, which plays a crucial role in the normal development of the placenta,” Ashkar explains. “This may be what disrupts the nutrient and oxygen delivery to the baby, ultimately impacting growth.”
Further observations of the offspring revealed behavioral changes, including altered aggression levels, activity, and learning abilities. The research team believes these changes could have long-lasting effects on the child’s development.
While the study’s findings are based on animal models, the research team urges caution and calls for further studies to understand the impact of cannabis consumption on human pregnancies.
“There is a clear need for more research to better understand how cannabis, particularly CBD, affects human pregnancies,” says Ritchie. “For now, the results suggest that cannabis use during pregnancy—whether THC or CBD—could pose risks that pregnant women should seriously consider.”
Disclaimer: The findings from this study are based on animal research and may not fully represent the effects on human pregnancies. Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare providers before using CBD or any cannabis products.
