The Effect of Cannabis on Prolactin: A Scoping Review of Endocrine Implications for Maternal and Fetal Health

Abstract Background: Cannabis use is increasing among women of reproductive age, yet its effects on prolactin (PRL), a hormone critical to lactation and maternal health, are poorly understood, especially in pregnancy and lactation contexts. Objectives: A scoping review exploring cannabis and prolactin levels in reproductive states was conducted to map the evidence and identify gaps for future research. Method: English peer-reviewed studies investigating the effect of cannabis or cannabinoids on prolactin in female or maternal models, either animal or human, were included. Medline, Scopus, and Embase were searched. Two reviewers screened data on study design, population, cannabis exposure, prolactin measures, and outcomes. Results: Thirty studies were included. In animals, tetrahydrocannabinol exposure often suppressed prolactin, especially during key reproductive stages. Human studies were inconsistent, with limited data on pregnancy or lactation. Conclusions: Cannabis impacts prolactin in a species- and context-specific manner. More rigorous human studies are urgently needed to guide perinatal care.