Cannabis Resources
In today’s world - cannabis has made a huge change in our society.
Individuals consume cannabis in many ways to help ease symptoms from chronic pain, addictions, anxiety / depression, and even cancer.
It is no secret that cannabis works for many individuals making their unique, chronic symptoms, more bearable.
We know that pregnancy can come with an array of symptoms, some mild and some chronic.
Consuming cannabis for your pregnancy symptoms is no different than medicating for the same symptoms.
And we’ll tell you why.
DISCLAIMER: All information on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, and does not establish any kind of patient client relationship by your own use of this website. We strive to provide accurate general information, the information presented here is not a substitute or any kind of professional advice, and you should not rely solely on this information. Always consult a professional in the area of your particular needs and circumstances prior to making any medical decisions.
Endocannabinoid System (eCS)
Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells.
Your ECS has receptors throughout your body that cannabis-like substances bond with.
These cannabis-like substances naturally occur inside us are called endocannabinoids.
The job of the endocannabinoid system is to keep our bodies in a state of balance.
When we experience disease or illness, suddenly our bodies are experiencing needs causing a state of unbalance.
The eCS is responsible to bring the body back to homeostasis.
Cannabis Safety / Risks - Anecdotal Evidence
Cannabis has a remarkable wide margin of safety - it is non-toxic.
Science has failed to consider the effects of a broad spectrum of cannabinoids and compounds.
Instead, research has focused on addiction and abuse potential and even then, the studies are not reliable.
It’s only recently that CBD has become the subject of research and finding it’s therapeutic effect.
While understanding anecdotal evidence, we recommend doing your own studies and research.
Not only for your cannabis - but everything you consume for medical purposes.
Finding The Right Doctor - Knowing Your Rights
It is illegal for a pregnant person to be drug tested without consent.
It is your right, performing such tests violates the Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable search and seizure.
It should be noted that black women are 10 times more likely to be targeted and tested for drug use.
The United States Supreme Court (Ferguson v. City of Charleston, 2001) ruled that hospital workers cannot test pregnant women for use of illegal drugs without their informed consent or a valid warrant if the purpose of the drug testing is to alert the police of a crime.
“Hospital policies of drug testing for the purpose of prosecution rather than treatment actually harm fetal health by discouraging women who most need assistance from seeking prenatal care.”
“A physician's duty is to provide sound medical treatment to their patient, not to act as an extension of law enforcement. Physicians serve medical—not legal—roles in the treatment of pregnant women. Health care professionals who act on behalf of the state rather than for their patients breach the ethical duties of the patient-physician relationship.”
Source: https://journalofethics.ama-assn.org/article/legality-drug-testing-procedures-pregnant-women/2008-01
Cannabis Laws During Pregnancy by State
Four states require hospitals to test both new mothers and their children if medical professionals suspect drug use.
North Dakota,
Minnesota
Iowa
Kentucky
Tennessee is the only state that has a statute that explicitly states that drug use during pregnancy is a crime.
The following states consider substance abuse during pregnancy a form of child abuse.
Arkansas
Colorado
Florida
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Louisiana
Minnesota
Nevada
Oklahoma
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Wisconsin
The following fifteen states require that hospital staff and other health care workers report drug use if they suspect that a pregnant person is using:
Alaska
Arizona
Illinois
Iowa
Louisiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Montana
North Dakota
Oklahoma
Rhode Island
Utah
Virginia
Pro Publica is a great resource to find the laws in your state.
Cannabis Doulas Are Within The Community
Within the community, we have Cannabis Doulas.
These professionals are certified as Cannacian educators, supporting the clients who use cannabis.
We are hoping to break the stigma on the use of cannabis during pregnancy and postpartum as we see the benefits first hand.
We know that CBD and Cannabis can help with our clients who experience nausea, anxiety, depression, pain, and many of the symptoms our postpartum clients experience.
We are able to educate our clients on safe ways to protect themselves with their use throughout and after pregnancy.
By helping to navigate the research and share our education we help establish records that our clients can share with their health care team.
Take a look at the 3 main reasons WHY parents choose a Cannabis Doula.