Navigating Cannabis Conversations with Providers

Talking to your provider about cannabis use during pregnancy or postpartum can be scary. Not because you’re doing something reckless—but because you’re trying to take care of yourself in a world that still isn’t sure how to hold those conversations with care.

As a cannabis-informed doula, I walk with people through this exact fear all the time. The truth is: you deserve respectful, honest care, even when your choices don’t align with what’s considered “typical.”

But how do you bring it up without triggering judgment—or worse, unnecessary surveillance or reports?

Let’s talk about it.

First: Know Your Rights

In Colorado, cannabis is legal for adult use—but that doesn’t mean it's free from stigma in the medical or birth world.

Hospitals and providers aren’t bound by cannabis laws the way dispensaries are. They may still flag cannabis use in pregnancy as a concern. That said, you always have the right to informed consent and refusal, and you don’t have to answer every question without understanding why it’s being asked.

If you’re worried about provider judgment, or potential CPS involvement, it’s okay to ask:

• “Can you tell me why you're asking about cannabis use?”

• “How would this information be documented?”

• “What are the possible next steps if I disclose use?”

  
  

These aren’t confrontational questions—they’re protective ones. You have a right to understand how your personal health information is being used.

Tips for the Conversation

Here are a few things to keep in mind when bringing up cannabis with a provider:

1. Be Clear About Your Intentions

Are you asking for guidance? Sharing what’s working for you? Looking for nonjudgmental monitoring? Start with something like:

“I’d like to talk openly about how I’m managing nausea/anxiety/sleep. Cannabis has helped, and I’d like your input on keeping myself and my baby safe.”

This signals that you’re thoughtful and proactive—not “using recklessly.”

2. Know What You’re Using and Why

Being informed about your dosage, method (smoking, vaping, tincture, edible), and frequency helps providers understand your use better. If you’re using a specific product or strain, write it down or bring it with you.

3. Frame It in Terms of Harm Reduction

You might say:

“I’ve tried other medications, but they didn’t help or made things worse. I’m using a small amount of cannabis because it’s the only thing that’s given me relief without serious side effects.”

That’s harm reduction. And it’s valid.

4. If You Feel Unsafe, You Can Pause

If your provider responds with condescension, threats, or makes you feel unsafe, you are not obligated to keep sharing. You can say:

“I’m going to hold off on discussing this further right now. I’d like to come back to it another time.”

And then bring it to someone you do trust—like a doula, therapist, or cannabis-informed provider.

You Deserve Respectful, Judgment-Free Care

Cannabis use in pregnancy isn’t a one-size-fits-all issue. It’s layered. And too often, people—especially those already marginalized—are met with shame instead of support when they try to be honest about what helps them feel okay in their body.

But here’s the truth: you are not alone. You are not reckless. You are not a bad parent.

You’re doing your best with the tools and support you have. And you deserve a care team that honors that.

If you’re unsure how to talk to your provider—or you’ve already had a hard experience—I’m here. As a cannabis-informed doula, I’ll walk with you through the fear, the questions, and the what-ifs. You don’t have to figure it out alone.