Marijuana use during pregnancy could result in children with this disorder

A new study suggests that children born to mothers who used cannabis during pregnancy are more likely to suffer from a variety of mental health problems.

The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, found that children whose mothers used marijuana when they were five or six weeks pregnant had a higher risk of developing mental health problems.

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The study includes data from 10,000 high school students who were exposed to cannabis in the womb between the ages of 11 and 12. The results showed that these children were more likely to have ADHD and exhibit aggressive behavior and behavioral disorders, and were more likely to break rules.

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While the researchers believe these findings should be kept in mind, particularly in the case of pregnant women, they clarify that the study does not suggest that marijuana causes mental disorders.

Like any other type of substance use during pregnancy, marijuana use has long been recognized as a risk. While cannabis can provide relief during pregnancy, particularly in those struggling with nausea, there isn’t much research on the subject.

Over the years, researchers have found links between marijuana and behavioral problems in children and higher rates of autism spectrum disorder diagnosis.

RELATED: Pregnant marijuana use linked to children with autism, study finds

The evidence available is confusing and requires further research to draw firm conclusions and allow people to be educated about the substances they use and the effects these can have on their bodies.

Now that marijuana is being legalized in the US and various parts of the world, it is vital for responsible parties to arm people with all the information they can, especially when it comes to children’s health.