Weed, pot, and marijuana are terms used to pertain to cannabis. Marijuana is the most used drug in the United States today. Smoking is the most common method of consumption. Other methods include vaporization and ingestion.People get addicted to weed because it contains the psychoactive substance called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol which produces the so-called “high.” This is described as any of the following: altered state of consciousness, euphoria, feelings of well-being, relaxation, lethargy, joviality, increased libido, hallucination, and many others.

Even pregnant women experiment with marijuana. They think that it is not harming the fetus. Here are some reasons why pregnant women should stop smoking weed.

First, smoking any substance is discouraged during pregnancy because it interferes with the blood supply of the fetus. This deprives the fetus of oxygen resulting in babies with low birth weight. Smaller babies have higher risk of postnatal problems like infections, jaundice, breathing problems, and many others.

Second, marijuana is usually mixed with other substances like tobacco. Therefore, if you are smoking weed, the fetus may also be exposed to other potentially harmful substances aside from marijuana.

Third, there have been studies showing that smoking weed while pregnant may affect the development of the baby’s nervous system. Other studies have shown that children who were exposed to marijuana during pregnancy sometimes have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, impaired motor skills, leukemia, concentration problems, cognitive deficits, impaired social interactions, short-term memory disorders, and problems with judgment. Some children seemed jittery and difficult to comfort.

Lastly, breastfeeding mothers should be aware that delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol can be transmitted through breast milk. Its concentration is 8 times higher in breast milk than in the mother’s bloodstream!

Are you pregnant and have resorted to smoking weed to get “high?” Now is the time to stop because you are harming your baby! Find other ways to get yourself “high” by doing other healthy activities that will give you that sense of fulfillment, happiness and well-being.

Click here for more information on smoking weed while pregnant.