Potential Warnings on Marijuana, THC Use During Pregnancy in California

California is considering designating pot as a risk to pregnant women and to require warnings concerning the substance, according to a report by Associated Press.

The state Developmental and Reproductive Toxicant Identification Committee held a meeting concerning whether THC causes “reproductive toxicity.” A committee of scientists, reportedly chosen by the governor, reviewed studies and assessed whether they were sufficient and comprehensive enough to render a determination concerning THC and pregnancy. The committee is conducting the review pursuant to Proposition 65, also known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act.

According to the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, “Proposition 65 requires businesses to provide warnings to Californians about significant exposures to chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.  These chemicals can be in the products that Californians purchase, in their homes or workplaces, or that are released into the environment. By requiring that this information be provided, Proposition 65 enables Californians to make informed decisions about their exposures to these chemicals.”

Tracy Woodruff a committee member and professor at the University of California, San Francisco shared in a WBur news article, “The warning labels have to be put up in places where these products are sold, and they have to say that it's known to the state of California to cause developmental health effects.” She added, “And I know the system has been changing over time, so they may put more specificity on that. It's unclear.”

In addition, Dr. Seth Ammerman, a clinical professor of pediatrics at Stanford University, who worked on a report by the American Academy of Pediatrics concerning pregnancy and marijuana use shared in a Los Angeles Times article that “Women should definitely be concerned that it’s not a good idea to use marijuana while pregnant.” He further added that those who are breastfeeding are strongly encouraged to “cut back or quit.” Despite California's laws on adult recreational and medical marijuana, marijuana is illegal under federal law and is classified as a Schedule I substance.

All information is for general informational and educational purposes only. Nothing should be interpreted as legal or medical advice.