Exploring safer cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding

Towards a harm reduction approach to perinatal cannabis use

NIH-funded research Brown University · NIH-10986589

This study is looking at how using cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding affects both parents and their babies, and it aims to help pregnant people who might not want to stop using cannabis by offering support and education on safer practices.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrown University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Providence, United States)
Project IDNIH-10986589 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, focusing on the increasing rates of use and the associated risks for both parents and children. It aims to develop harm reduction strategies that provide education and counseling to pregnant individuals who may not be ready to stop using cannabis entirely. By training medical providers to engage in these discussions effectively, the research seeks to promote safer practices while respecting patient autonomy. The approach emphasizes modifiable risk factors related to cannabis use, aiming to improve health outcomes for both mothers and their children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant individuals or new mothers who use cannabis and are seeking guidance on how to reduce potential risks.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use cannabis during pregnancy or breastfeeding may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes for mothers and children by promoting safer cannabis use practices during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that harm reduction strategies can be effective in promoting health among individuals using substances, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Providence, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.