Does Marijuana Tea Cause Abortion?

Marijuana tea, also known as cannabis tea or weed tea, is a herbal infusion made by steeping parts of the cannabis plant in hot water. It’s often used for recreational, medicinal, or wellness purposes. However, when it comes to pregnancy, the stakes are higher, and questions arise: Does marijuana tea cause abortion? Is it safe during pregnancy? What do science and experts say?

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What Is Marijuana Tea?

Marijuana tea is made by steeping cannabis leaves, buds, or stems in boiling water, sometimes with added fat (like milk or coconut oil) to help extract THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), the two main active compounds.

While some people use it for pain relief, anxiety, or sleep, others simply enjoy it as a herbal remedy. However, it still delivers cannabinoids into the body — compounds known to interact with the brain and nervous system.

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Marijuana and Pregnancy: The Basics

Marijuana is a psychoactive drug, and its effects are systemic — meaning it can impact the brain, immune system, hormone levels, and even fetal development. Cannabinoids like THC cross the placenta, potentially affecting the unborn baby.

During pregnancy, even substances that seem mild or natural can pose risks. That’s why the use of marijuana in any form — smoking, vaping, edibles, or tea — is a topic of significant concern in prenatal care.

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Can Marijuana Tea Cause Abortion?

Short Answer:

There is no definitive clinical evidence that marijuana tea directly causes abortion or miscarriage. However, marijuana use during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications, including low birth weight, premature birth, and possibly spontaneous miscarriage.

So while it may not directly induce abortion like certain drugs or procedures, it could increase the risk of pregnancy loss through indirect effects.

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Scientific Studies on Cannabis and Miscarriage

Research is still evolving, but several studies suggest potential concerns:

Study	Findings
National Academies of Sciences (2017)	Found “limited evidence” linking prenatal cannabis use to lower birth weight.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)	Advises against marijuana use due to concerns about fetal brain development and potential miscarriage.
2020 Study (Journal of the American Medical Association)	Linked prenatal cannabis exposure to increased risk of behavioral and cognitive problems in children.

Most of these studies focus on THC exposure, not specifically marijuana tea. But since tea can still deliver THC and other cannabinoids, it’s assumed to carry similar risks.

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Risks of Marijuana Use During Pregnancy

Here’s what marijuana consumption — including tea — may do during pregnancy:

• Interferes with Fetal Brain Development: THC affects brain receptors involved in growth and cognition.
• Increases Risk of Miscarriage: Some animal studies and observational human studies suggest an increased miscarriage rate.
• Lowers Birth Weight: Babies exposed to THC may be smaller at birth.
• Premature Birth: Some studies link cannabis use with a higher rate of preterm labor.
• Stillbirth: The risk, though low, appears higher in women who use marijuana frequently during pregnancy.

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Why Some Pregnant Women Use Marijuana

Pregnant women sometimes turn to marijuana tea to help manage:

• Morning sickness
• Stress or anxiety
• Insomnia
• Chronic pain
• Nausea from hyperemesis gravidarum

While the intent is therapeutic, the consequences can be risky — especially when safer, medically-approved alternatives exist.

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Alternatives for Managing Pregnancy Symptoms

If you’re pregnant and struggling with symptoms, here are safer options to consider:

Symptom	Safe Alternatives
Nausea	Ginger tea, vitamin B6, doxylamine (ask your doctor)
Anxiety	Prenatal yoga, therapy, light exercise
Insomnia	Sleep hygiene, warm milk, relaxation techniques
Pain	Acetaminophen (with doctor’s approval), warm baths

Always consult your OB-GYN before trying any herbal remedy or over-the-counter medication.

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Expert Guidelines and Warnings

Leading health organizations strongly advise against marijuana use during pregnancy:

• CDC: Warns that marijuana may harm a baby’s development.
• ACOG: Recommends discontinuing marijuana use in all forms when planning a pregnancy.
• WHO: Cautions that cannabis use during pregnancy may cause long-term harm to the child.

These guidelines are based on precaution, given the uncertainties and potential risks.

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Myths vs Facts

Myth	Fact
“Marijuana tea is natural, so it’s safe.”	Natural doesn’t mean safe — especially during pregnancy.
“It’s okay if I just use a little bit.”	Even small amounts of THC can cross the placenta.
“There’s no proof it causes harm.”	Lack of proof is not proof of safety. Risks are still being researched.
“I used it and had a healthy baby, so it’s fine.”	Individual outcomes vary; anecdotal evidence isn’t a substitute for medical research.

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Conclusion: Should You Drink Marijuana Tea While Pregnant?

No, it’s not recommended. While marijuana tea may not be a known abortifacient (abortion-causing substance), it does carry significant risks to pregnancy, including miscarriage, developmental issues, and birth complications.

Until more conclusive human studies are available — and given the advice of leading medical authorities — it’s best to avoid marijuana tea entirely during pregnancy. If you’re considering using it for medical reasons, speak with your healthcare provider about safer alternatives.

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Final Word

Pregnancy is a delicate phase where every choice matters. While marijuana tea may seem harmless or even soothing, it’s not worth the potential risks. Prioritize evidence-based care, stay informed, and when in doubt, always turn to trusted healthcare professionals for guidance.

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If you’re looking for reliable information on herbal teas and pregnancy safety, or need help navigating natural remedies, feel free to ask your doctor or a registered herbalist with prenatal experience.

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