New mothers are facing the challenge of accessing adequate maternal health care that accounts for both traditional and alternative treatments, such as cannabis. While cannabis has been legalized in Oregon for medical use, significant gaps remain in how it is integrated into maternal health care. This petition seeks to address these issues, ensuring that expectant and new mothers have access to all available options to promote their health and the health of their babies.

Cannabis is known to offer relief from severe nausea, chronic pain, and anxiety, which are conditions often associated with pregnancy and postpartum period. However, due to the stigma and lack of regulatory clarity, many health care providers in Oregon are hesitant to recommend cannabis to pregnant and postpartum women, even when it could significantly improve their quality of life. Ensuring safe and researched access to cannabis could offer vital health benefits, promoting improved outcomes for mothers and their children.

Oregon is home to countless families who could benefit from cannabis reform. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, approximately 70% of women experience physical or mental health challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Cannabis could prove to be an important option in the suite of treatments available to mothers who need relief from such stressors.

To initiate this change, we propose a multifaceted approach: - Educate health care providers about the benefits and considerations of cannabis use during maternal care. - Create clear guidelines and protocols supported by clinical evidence, ensuring cannabis can be safely included in maternal health plans. - Advocate for policy reforms that destigmatize the use of cannabis as a treatment during pregnancy and postpartum.

We call upon Oregon health authorities and lawmakers to take immediate action to reform current policies surrounding cannabis use in maternal health care. Help us make this vision a reality by signing this petition. Your support can contribute to shaping a health care system that is compassionate, considerate, and open to alternative medicine that would help so many new mothers across Oregon.