Marijuana Use During Pregnancy: Risks & Meconium Testing

Question
I'm 33 years old, 31 weeks pregnant with my first baby girl.  My last period was June 22, 2005.

I have not smoked pot during my pregnancy until this last weekend when I was sick with the flu.  I had heard that it wouldn't harm the baby and I was miseraby nauseous.  I have two questions.  1) If I smoked at 31 weeks, 6-8 times in a 48 hour period, did I cause my baby harm? and 2) will this show up in a meconium test when the baby is born? I feel very stupid about my poor decision, but I would like to know my concequences.

Thanks,

Tammy

Answer
It is unlikely that the marijuana will cause any detrimental effects on the fetus at this stage of the pregnancy and in the small amounts you used.  No "meconium test" is done. Usually, we do not see any meconium unless you have gone beyond your due date or if the baby is under stress. In any event, we do not test for marijuana or other drugs at all. Usually, a toxicology screen cannot be done without your permission and the idea to do one would only be entertained if you are stoned. Don't worry.