Predictors of perinatal cannabis use in colorado and the association with depression during pregnancy

To evaluate the prevalence and predictors of cannabis use and reasons for use during and/or after pregnancy among Colorado birthing individuals. To determine the independent association of self-reported depression during pregnancy and cannabis used.

Data from Health eMoms, a statewide perinatal longitudinal electronic surveillance system were analyzed. Perinatal cannabis use was defined as any use during and/or after pregnancy. Bivariate associations of birthing individual and infant characteristics with use were estimated using chi-square tests. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the independent relationship between depression and reported cannabis use versus no reported cannabis use.

A weighted sample of 117,812 birthing individuals was analyzed from survey responses between 2018–2021. Among the 15,585 (13.3%) who reported perinatal cannabis use, 35.5% reported use during pregnancy and 87.3% reported post-partum use. Individuals with depression during pregnancy had 2.2 times higher adjusted odds (95% CI: 1.5. 3.3) of any perinatal cannabis use compared to those without depression. Among those who had any perinatal cannabis use, reported use for medical reasons was 92% during pregnancy, while 43% cited this as the reason for use 12–14 months post-partum.

Self-reported cannabis use during the perinatal period in a state with legalized recreational use was over 1 in 10. Use varied significantly by demographics and social factors with inconsistent perinatal guidance provided by healthcare professionals. Depression during pregnancy was significantly associated with use, illustrating the need for comprehensive mental health screening and therapeutic evidence-based interventions to support these individuals.