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Cannabis use is still highly controversial in the medical community, especially maternal use. However, more women using cannabis while pregnant than ever. About 3.4% of pregnant women overall reported daily intake.
Why are women turning to cannabis when it so widely stigmatized? It's important to weigh the risks between cannabis and other treatments, but these are the most common beneficial uses in pregnant people.
#1 Anxiety Relief
After the rough year the world suffered from COVID-19, it's no wonder more women are suffering from anxiety. Stress has shown in studies to cause decreased development of white brain matter. It's safe to say stress can have serious consequences for unborn babies and cannabis should be weighed against other anti-anxiety treatments. Anxiety can be managed with regular use of THC.
#2 Appetite Stimulant
Often, pregnancy causes nausea and food aversion. Lack of food for a pregnant woman can be detrimental to a fetus, so it is important that she maintains nutrition that promotes growth. When her nausea is so great and she avoids food, cannabis can be very effective at stimulating hunger. Additionally, it can improve taste senses and act as an antiemetic. This is one of the common uses of cannabis for those undergoing cancer treatment as well.
#3 General Pain
Let's be real, pregnancy can be a real pain. All sorts of pain can be experienced such as sciatica, symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), general muscle soreness, a baby wedged in your rib, etc. Cannabis provides plenty of relief for pain and could be a substantially better option than NSAIDs and Aspirin. It's important the mother gets relief from pain to promote healthy exercise to provide important physical and mental health.
#5 Insomnia Treatment
Pregnant people experience insomnia for a variety of reasons from general discomfort to stress. It is obvious why they may desperately seek a good nights sleep before their newborn arrives, begging for midnight feeds. Sleep restores the body and mind. It is important to get as much rest as possible, to prevent further stress. Cannabis works as a gentle sleep aid, providing a deep restful sleep and no groggy after effects. It's no wonder women select it over OTC and prescription medications.
#6 Depression Relief
Depression both during and after pregnancy can be a life threatening illness, often missed or overlooked in maternal care. Anti-depressants can be helpful, however they can have serious side effects for both mother and baby. Weighing the risks of anti-depressants vs cannabis, one might reconsider choosing a prescription medication over a plant.
#7 Hyperemesis Gravidarum Relief (and minor nausea)
Hyperemesis Gravidarum, commonly known as HG, is a condition noted for extreme nausea and vomiting while pregnant. It often leads to dehydration and hospitalization. Zofran is usually prescribed for such, but recently the FDA release information that links Zofran to development of congenital cardiac malformations and cleft lip/palette. It's clear to see why a pregnant woman would be in great need for a better alternative, and for many, cannabis is the answer.
Learn more at https://linktr.ee/Letsdoulathisllc
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