This qualitative study, conducted in Québec and published in Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare (2025), explores the lived experiences of 18 women who used cannabis during pregnancy. Rather than focusing exclusively on biomedical risks, the researchers sought to understand how women make sense of their cannabis use across their life course, including the socio-economic, psychological, and relational factors that shape their decisions.
Through in-depth interviews, the study found that cannabis use often begins during adolescence due to social influences but evolves into a coping strategy for mental health challenges, trauma, and daily stress. While many participants aimed to reduce or stop cannabis use during pregnancy, their ability to do so was influenced by factors such as addiction, limited support, mental health symptoms, and the presence (or absence) of safe, supportive relationships. The study emphasizes the importance of non-stigmatizing, context-sensitive public health approaches that honor the complexity of women’s lives.
Reflection for FASD Prevention Conversation Facilitators
This research reinforces what many FASD Prevention Facilitators encounter in practice, that substance use during pregnancy often exists within a broader story of trauma, unmet health needs, and survival strategies. Women’s cannabis use is rarely about disregard for fetal health, it is frequently about managing anxiety, navigating overwhelming stress, and coping with difficult life circumstances.
For facilitators, the study is a reminder to stay grounded in compassion, curiosity, and cultural humility. A one-size-fits-all abstinence message can alienate women and unintentionally deepen feelings of shame or failure. Instead, our conversations must reflect a harm reduction lens, meet women where they are at, and focus on building trust and connection.