Two bowel surgeries removing an estimated 100 cm + of the small intestine and living in chronic pain since adolescence due to Crohn’s Disease. This is what some patients endure before finding relief. This is what finally convinced medical professionals in the Montreal area to provide a woman that we’re going to call “Kate” (for the sake of her job and livelihood) with a prescription for medical cannabis. She also against it all decided to continue to utilize medical cannabis while pregnant and breastfeeding. Learn more below!
Kate’s Medical Cannabis Experience While Pregnant and Breastfeeding
It wasn’t the specialist that worked with her throughout two decades with her Crohn’s Disease that suggested cannabis. It was a rheumatologist instead that recommended medical cannabis to assist with Kate’s rheumatoid arthritis. Kate is a prime example of an individual who is a very productive member of society. One who utilizes medical cannabis. Kate doesn’t want her real name revealed because she works with children and fears that if her story went public, she could lose her job.
Kate found herself pregnant and utilizing cannabis as a pain management option throughout her pregnancy. She switched to vaping and only consumed low amounts of THC focusing more on CBD. When it comes to cannabis consumption while pregnant and breastfeeding doctors advised don’t do it. Yet the same doctors were okay with prescribing Oxycontin, Dilaudid, and other opiates to Kate who did not want to take these medications while she was pregnant.
Kate’s doctors actually supported her decision to stay clear of opioids and utilize medical cannabis during her pregnancy. The reduction of THC could have attributed to Kate’s anxiety and seeking the advice of a psychologist. The psychologist, of course, suggested that Kate immediately discontinue any use of medical cannabis while pregnant and breastfeeding. Instead, she suggested replacing it with Ativan and a narcotic for pain. This is the exact problem that has fueled the opioid epidemic globally.
Kate is breastfeeding today and still consuming cannabis. Though she consumes less now than she did before she was pregnant, she still finds it effective. Even with her consuming cannabis pediatricians have detected no signs of THC consumption in her child.
Why Medical Cannabis While Pregnant and Breastfeeding is Beneficial
Cannabis helps to relieve inflammation, reduce stress and anxiety as well as increase appetite and reduce nausea. These are all things that help a woman tremendously during pregnancy. How a doctor could even suggest replacing a safe natural plant with dangerous and proven deadly opioids and anti-anxiety medication is concerning. While Kate is having a very successful time raising her baby she still has to live in fear of someone else finding out her story and losing her livelihood.
Jordana Zabitsky is a mom who openly admits and supports her cannabis consumption during pregnancy. She has two healthy children ages one and two that have hit every milestone. Nemerice Sangowicz is another mom who uses recreational cannabis helping her to cope with anxiety, depression, and arthritis. She has three children and did not stop her cannabis consumption during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Her children are all healthy at ages 3 5 & 6 with no adverse side effects or signs from her utilizing medical cannabis while pregnant and breastfeeding.
Did you utilize cannabis during pregnancy or while breastfeeding? We would love to hear about your experiences in the comment section below.
