Being high while driving:
Cannabis use slows your reaction time and your decision making skills. It also can make it harder to judge distances or time. Driving at a slower speed while high does not make it safer for you, for those in the vehicle and others on the road. Cannabis use increases the risk of a collision. When you use cannabis and alcohol together, it is even more dangerous.
Cannabis impairs your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. Never drive while impaired! Drug-impaired driving by cannabis use is a criminal offense in Canada. |
Making decisions about cannabis use as a parent:
When making a decision about substance use, know the potential benefits and risks to your health, your relationships, your work or your finances.
| As parents, there are many reasons to be cautious about your choices. You are encouraged to keep learning about the effects of cannabis as new information becomes available. Discuss your concerns and questions |
Who to call for information or help
- ConnexOntario – Addiction, Mental Health, and Problem Gambling Treatment Services
1-866-531-2600 - Local public health unit – to talk to a nurse to learn more
1-800-267-8097 - Motherisk – to get information on substance use in pregnancy
1-877-FAS-INFO (1-877-327-4636) - Telehealth Ontario – 24/7 – to get fast, free medical advice
1-866-797-0000 - The Ontario Poison Centre – if your child has consumed an edible product
1-800-268-9017
Resources
- Are you pregnant or considering pregnancy? Did you know that the use of cannabis may be harmful to your baby?
- Cannabis and Pregnancy Don’t Mix
- Cannabis in Canada. Get the facts
- Thinking about using cannabis before or during pregnancy?
- Thinking about using cannabis while parenting?
- 8 Things You Need to Know about Cannabis, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- 10 Ways to Reduce Risks to Your Health When Using Cannabis
Have a conversation with your health care provider.
If your health care provider wants to know more, here are resources you can provide:
AcknowledgementsBest Start by Health Nexus thanks the Centre of Excellence for Women’s Health for compiling the research for this resource. Thanks also to those who provided input during the development of this resource:
Best Start by Health Nexus Lead: Marie Brisson We would also like to thank the parents who provided input for this booklet. |
This document has been prepared with funds provided by the Government of Ontario. The information herein reflects the views of the authors and does not necessarily reflect the views of the Government of Ontario. Best Start by Health Nexus and the Government of Ontario do not necessarily endorse the resources and programs cited throughout this guide.
Citation: Best Start by Health Nexus (2019). Risks of Cannabis on Fertility, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding and Parenting.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada: author
2019