How Medicinal Cannabis is Reshaping Motherhood in New Zealand
As medicinal cannabis becomes more accessible in New Zealand, a growing number of mothers are turning to it for relief from physical and mental health challenges. But while the law now allows legal use, societal stigma and financial barriers remain significant hurdles for many women.
A new study led by Vinuli Withanarachchie, Marta Rychert, and Chris Wilkins reveals how mothers are navigating the complexities of cannabis use under New Zealand’s legal medicinal cannabis scheme. Interviewing 15 mothers who had used cannabis—legally or otherwise—within the past year, the research sheds light on their struggles, empowerment, and the ongoing societal judgment they face.
Cannabis as a Tool for Better Parenting
For many of the participants, medicinal cannabis (MC) was more than just a treatment—it was a parenting aid. These mothers used cannabis to alleviate chronic pain, anxiety, endometriosis, arthritis, and other health challenges that often made it harder to engage fully with their children.
One mother shared how cannabis helped her stay calm and patient:
“It allows me to manage my emotions and not get worked up over little things, which in turn opens up conversations with my kids that might not have happened otherwise.”
However, despite these benefits, most participants emphasized responsible use—often consuming cannabis only after their children had gone to bed. For single mothers and those with financial constraints, the high cost of legally obtained cannabis often forced them to turn to unregulated markets or grow their own plants, a risky choice that could jeopardize their parental rights.
Navigating Stigma and Talking to Children About Cannabis
Beyond financial barriers, stigma was a recurring theme in the mothers’ stories. Many felt judged simply for using cannabis, especially since societal expectations often hold mothers to higher behavioral standards than fathers.
In an effort to combat this stigma, some mothers proactively discussed their cannabis use with their children, framing it as a legitimate medical treatment—no different from taking prescription medication. For one Māori mother, cannabis use was also linked to Rongoā (traditional Māori medicine), bringing cultural depth to the discussion.
Yet, not all mothers felt ready for these conversations. Some worried about how young children might interpret their use, while others feared that societal judgments could lead to misunderstandings or legal consequences.
The Risks: Legal, Social, and Cultural Disparities
The study also highlighted how social identity can amplify the risks associated with medicinal cannabis use. While some New Zealand European mothers acknowledged their racial and socioeconomic privilege might protect them from legal repercussions, Māori participants voiced concerns about systemic discrimination.
One Māori participant reflected on the broader social impacts:
“The system amplifies anything that reinforces the stereotype of Māori being seen as bad. Cannabis becomes another tool to marginalize us.”
Single mothers faced additional fears—particularly the possibility of losing custody of their children due to their cannabis use, especially if accessed illegally.
Shifting Attitudes, But Challenges Remain
While the legalization of medicinal cannabis in New Zealand is helping to reshape public perceptions, the stigma around cannabis use—especially for mothers—remains deeply ingrained. Yet, the study suggests that this stigma is beginning to shift. Many mothers are now openly discussing their use, not just with their children but also within their communities, helping to challenge outdated narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of cannabis as medicine.
The Bigger Picture: Policy Gaps and Future Research Needs
This research highlights the need for better access to affordable, legal medicinal cannabis in New Zealand. It also underscores the importance of policies that protect mothers from legal risks and societal judgment when using cannabis as a legitimate medical treatment.
As medicinal cannabis use grows worldwide, understanding its impact on different demographics—especially mothers—will be essential for shaping inclusive, compassionate drug policies. Future research should continue to explore how legal access, stigma, and parenting intersect to affect women’s health and well-being.
For readers interested in exploring more about the evolving role of cannabis in health and wellness, several related studies offer valuable insights. Research on cannabinoid therapies and cyclodextrins highlights promising developments in managing chronic pain through improved bioavailability of cannabis compounds (read more here). Additionally, the growing body of research on cannabigerol (CBG) suggests significant therapeutic potential for various conditions, including inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases (discover the findings). Meanwhile, studies also show that marijuana use may be linked to a reduction in alcohol and other drug consumption, shedding light on its potential role in harm reduction strategies (learn more here). These articles provide a broader perspective on how cannabis-related therapies are shaping modern approaches to health and addiction.
