A study published in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs suggested that mandatory warning signs at dispensaries about the potential health risks of cannabis use in pregnancy may not be effective. The study also indicated those who are pregnant and using cannabis might distrust the content of warning signs.
The research team interviewed 34 pregnant or recently pregnant individuals from different states with varying cannabis regulation policies. These states fit into the following categories: states with legal recreational cannabis and MWS-cannabis, states with legal recreational cannabis without MWS-cannabis, and states with nonlegal recreational cannabis). The participants reported using cannabis before or during pregnancy. The researchers asked participants to describe their perceptions of specific mandatory warning signs. The team then used thematic analysis to identify the main themes.
The participants reacted differently to warning signs. Over half of the participants had only adverse reactions to the warning signs. These participants questioned whether the scientific evidence about cannabis and pregnancy was compelling enough to justify the strong warnings. 18 of the 34 participants believe there is insufficient scientific evidence about the risks of cannabis use during pregnancy to justify the warnings. Many believed such signs were not useful nor relevant, and that the warnings could lead those who are pregnant to avoid health care due to stigmatizing feelings. Sixteen participants said that the warning signs would not be effective and would not deter anyone from using cannabis while pregnant.
Medical professionals are concerned about the increasing number of pregnant women using cannabis. As more states legalize recreational cannabis, policymakers and medical professionals emphasize the need for evidence-based information on cannabis consumption and pregnancy outcomes. The researchers emphasize that it is important for policymakers to avoid using universal warning signs that may not resonate with different subpopulations of expectant mothers.
Sources: Eureka News Alert, Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs
