# Is the use of cannabidiol (CBD) products permitted during pregnancy?

Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy
Language: en
Category: pregnancy
Publisher: ClinicsJo
Published: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.710Z
Content updated: 2026-09-13T17:52:52.710Z
Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against using cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), or marijuana in any form during pregnancy or breastfeeding [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>). There is no comprehensive research studying the effects of CBD on a developing fetus, a pregnant individual, or a breastfeeding infant, which raises significant safety concerns [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>).

## Why is it recommended to avoid CBD during pregnancy?

Despite the increasing availability of CBD products, there is a lack of clinical data proving their safety and efficacy during pregnancy. Based on available information, there are concerning reasons to avoid CBD use during this period. For example, high doses of CBD have caused reproductive system issues in developing male fetuses in animal studies [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>). Additionally, a certain amount of CBD is expected to pass to infants through breast milk [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>).

Furthermore, CBD products may be contaminated with other substances that pose a risk to the fetus or infant, including THC and other potential contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, and fungi [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>). In general, CBD is associated with known risks to individuals, such as liver toxicity, extreme drowsiness, and adverse interactions with other medications [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>).

## Risks of cannabis and marijuana use during pregnancy

While CBD differs from marijuana (which contains varying levels of THC), cannabis use in general during pregnancy is linked to potential health risks. Some research suggests that using cannabis during pregnancy may be associated with developmental problems in children and adolescents [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S1>). Moreover, THC, the compound responsible for the euphoric effect, can cross the placenta from the mother's bloodstream and may affect fetal brain development and increase the risk of delivering a low-birth-weight infant [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>). Research also points to an increased risk of preterm birth and potentially stillbirth [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends against the use of marijuana during pregnancy, in line with the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists [\[2\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S2>).

## What should you do if you are using CBD products?

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and are using CBD products or any products containing THC or marijuana, it is essential to speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist before taking any medications, vitamins, or herbs [\[4\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S4>). Your healthcare provider can offer advice based on your individual health status and help you make safe decisions for yourself and your baby. Do not stop using any prescribed medications suddenly without medical consultation, especially if you are using opioids, as this could be dangerous for you and your baby [\[1\]](<https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#source-S1>).

## Public awareness and medical follow-up

Pregnancy requires the utmost caution regarding the intake of any substances. For more information about the general risks of substance use during pregnancy, you can visit [The Impact of Substance and Alcohol Use on Pregnancy and the Fetus: A Prevention and Treatment Guide (Arabic)](<https://clinicsjo.com/ar/articles/substance-alcohol-pregnancy-risks>). Always remember that your healthcare provider is the best source of medical information and personalized advice for your condition.

## Medical references

- [What You Should Know About Using Cannabis, Including CBD, When Pregnant or Breastfeeding | FDA](<https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-should-know-about-using-cannabis-including-cbd-when-pregnant-or-breastfeeding>)

- [Pregnancy and Substance Use](<https://medlineplus.gov/pregnancyandsubstanceuse.html>)

- [Substance Use During Pregnancy](<https://www.cdc.gov/maternal-infant-health/pregnancy-substance-abuse/>)

General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment.

Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/cbd-use-during-pregnancy#answer
