Cannabis Exposure and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Related to Placental Function

( JAMA . 2023;330(22):2191–2199. doi: 10.1001/jama.2023.21146) Cannabis use has steadily increased over the last decade and is now viewed by many pregnant individuals as relatively safe in many forms. Previously published research in pregnancy is limited by inaccurate assessment of exposure to cannabis, relying heavily on self-reported use, and significant confounding that influences pregnancy outcomes including tobacco use, anxiety, and depression. Researchers agree that the prevalence of cannabis use is chronically underestimated, due to the stigma associated with any drug use in pregnancy as well as potential legal consequences in states with mandatory reporting. Exposure to cannabis has been linked to placental dysfunction and poor fetal growth. This study was executed to evaluate an association between cannabis use and adverse pregnancy outcomes that are related to placental function, as well as to understand the strength of the association based on exposure timing and intensity.