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Perinatal Cannabis Use, Depression, and the Mother-Child Dyad: Protocol for a Prospective Multimethod Study
Lauren Micalizzi1, Lindy K Howe1, Cynthia L Battle2
1Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States.
JMIR Research Protocols
|December 11, 2025
Summary
This study investigates the impact of cannabis use on postpartum depression (PPD) and mother-infant bonding. Findings will inform future research on perinatal mental health risks associated with cannabis consumption.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal mental health research
- Cannabis use and maternal well-being
- Mother-infant relationship studies
Background:
- Postpartum depression (PPD) rates are high globally, posing risks to families.
- Perinatal cannabis use is rising and may worsen PPD.
- Impact of cannabis on immediate depressive symptoms and maternal-child bonding is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- Longitudinal investigation of daily and long-term associations between cannabis use and PPD.
- Examine the impact of cannabis use on the mother-infant relationship.
- Detect initial signals linking cannabis, PPD, and maternal-child bonding.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study with 20 pregnant individuals using cannabis ≥ twice weekly.
- Baseline, 6-week, and 6-month postpartum assessments including surveys and behavioral tasks.
- Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) bursts for daily symptom tracking.
Main Results:
- Recruitment goal of 20 participants met; retention rates near 100%.
- EMA compliance rates exceed 80%, higher than in non-pregnant samples.
- Data collection ongoing, with preliminary findings expected to inform larger studies.
Conclusions:
- Protocol successfully collects momentary and longitudinal data on cannabis use, PPD, and maternal-child bonding.
- Provides preliminary evidence on cannabis use effects during a high-risk period for maternal mental health.
- Findings will inform larger studies and advance understanding of perinatal cannabis use impacts.
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