Maternal cannabis use puts kids at risk of behavioural problems

Children exposed to their mother’s cannabis use during pregnancy and after birth are three times more likely to develop behavioural problems, according to research from Curtin University.

Published in the journal Psychiatry Research, the study analysed data from more than 222,600 Australian mothers and children, revealing maternal cannabis use disorder (CUD) during pregnancy and the postnatal period significantly increased the risk of childhood disruptive behavioural disorders.

“We found children of mothers with cannabis use disorder were at a significantly higher risk of developing behavioural issues such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD),” said lead researcher Abay Tadesse, from Curtin’s School of Population Health.

“Our research showed maternal cannabis use during pregnancy increased the risk of disruptive behavioural disorders by 3.56 times, while postnatal use increased the risk by 2.95 times.

“With an estimated one in five Australian pregnant women using cannabis and disruptive behavioural disorders on the rise, our findings underscore the growing public health concern around cannabis use.”

The study thus highlights the lasting impact of maternal cannabis use on children’s mental health, while acknowledging that any associations are also likely to be influenced by a range of genetic, environmental and social factors.

“Cannabinoid ingredients can cross the placenta and enter breast milk, potentially affecting brain development,” noted Professor Rosa Alati, Head of Curtin’s School of Population Health. “This research provides critical evidence to help shape health policies aimed at minimising harm.

“While intervention strategies are essential, further genetic research is also needed to better understand the link between maternal cannabis use and childhood behavioural disorders.”

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