The state of Nevada will soon be launching a public information campaign to address the use of cannabis by pregnant women and stress on the impact of exposure in the womb.

The concern came as a response to research from the Las Vegas Review Journal that shows more pregnant women are using cannabis. Information from another federal study last year found cannabis use by pregnant women in the U.S. increased from 2.4 percent in 2002 to 3.9 percent in 2014.

In terms of health effects, the Journal of Perinatology published a study in 2014 mentioning regular cannabis use significantly increased the risk of adverse effects in neurological development and behavioral problems. Another research in Pittsburgh found that 6-yeard-olds born to a mother who had smoked one joint or more daily in the first trimester displayed less ability to comprehend concepts in reading and listening.

In Nevada, Chief Health Officer John DiMuro said recent reports from hospitals suggest more expectant mothers are using cannabis. DiMuro is concerned that legalization of cannabis in Nevada will help fuel the perception that because cannabis is a plant, it is safe to use during pregnancy, especially for nausea.

With the other eight states, including Nevada, permitting adults to use social cannabis and an additional 30 allowing medical use, health experts now regularly warn about cannabis’ possible negative effects on the unborn, especially in potential developmental delay.

Despite the increasing concern, there is limited research about cannabis effects on the fetus, and the long-term impact of exposure in the womb.

“Research is not consistent,” said DiMuro.