“1, 2, 3, Release”: Cannabis Consumption and Mental Health and Well-Being During Pregnancy, Lactation and Parenthood

Abstract

Objective: This paper presents rich and in-depth insights emerging from “Wading through the Weeds” (WttW), a participatory arts-based research study that used the Photovoice method to centre the lived experience of 23 mothers throughout Canada who consumed cannabis during pregnancy, lactation and motherhood. Method: Specifically, this paper examines and elucidates the ways that the mothers in our study used cannabis to address mental health challenges during the perinatal period and beyond. Results: A significant theme emerging from our research findings was the connection between the mothers’ decision to consume cannabis to cope with and/or overcome mental health challenges and a strong belief that cannabis supported them with their perinatal and maternal health and well-being. This included multiple stressors such as financial and interpersonal concerns, experiences of anxiety and depression, histories of addiction, trauma, and abuse, and managing of symptoms associated with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that impacted their everyday lives. Conclusions: Our inquiry suggests that there is a dire need for public health decision-makers, clinicians, and social workers to understand and respond to the historical context, current realities, and intersecting identities of pregnant, lactating and parenting people who consume cannabis. Responses that run counter to the current context, where stigma and fear prevent parents from accessing cannabis information and support, have the potential to more effectively support the mental health and wellbeing of these parents during the perinatal period.