Cannabis Conversation: Is pot safe for pregnant moms? Does marijuana cause lung cancer?

Cannabis has grown more popular over the last decade and recently more information regarding potential health risks and benefits has started to surface. While researchers know that the health risks of marijuana on adults are minor, the question remains, can pregnant women consume cannabis safely? Relieving arthritis pain for one man and morning sickness for one woman may share cannabis as a similar remedy, however scientists say they need more research to confirm the risks of cannabis on a developing fetus. Currently, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends mothers halt marijuana consumption until they're finished breastfeeding, but the list of precautions for pregnant women also include deli meat, fish/sushi, raw eggs, soft cheeses, unpasteurized milk, caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. Cannabis, while having some similar compounds as tobacco, is not shown to be increase the risk for cancer, and in fact the primary compound in marijuana, THC, has been shown to slow the growth of some cancers. 

A. There’s no level of marijuana use that’s considered “safe” for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, per the experts, just as there’s no safe level of alcohol, tobacco or many other substances.

More research is underway. But the American Medical Association feels there’s enough evidence of risk to push for this warning on all marijuana products: “Marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding poses potential harms.”