Can you breastfeed while using THC?

The Complex Relationship Between THC and Breastfeeding
As the legalization of cannabis continues to spread across various states, many new mothers are left grappling with the question: Can I breastfeed while using THC? The answer is nuanced and requires careful consideration of the potential risks involved.
Understanding THC in Breast Milk
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, is known to be excreted into breast milk. Research indicates that THC can be detected in the breast milk of mothers who use marijuana, with studies showing that 66% of breastfeeding mothers who smoked marijuana had detectable levels of THC in their milk. The duration of THC’s presence in breast milk can vary significantly, with some studies suggesting it can linger for up to six days or even longer.
Risks to Infants
The potential risks associated with THC exposure through breast milk are a significant concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that using marijuana may allow harmful chemicals to pass from mother to infant, either through breast milk or secondhand smoke. This exposure could lead to developmental issues and other health concerns for the infant. The Surgeon General has also highlighted risks such as low birth weight and potential developmental delays.
Recommendations from Health Experts
Given the uncertainties surrounding the effects of THC on breastfeeding infants, health experts generally advise against the use of marijuana during this critical period. The consensus is clear: abstaining from THC is the safest option for breastfeeding mothers. While some mothers may turn to cannabis for relief from conditions like chronic pain, the potential risks to the infant’s health often outweigh the benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, while the allure of cannabis may be strong for some new mothers, the evidence suggests that breastfeeding while using THC poses significant risks to infants. The presence of THC in breast milk, coupled with the potential for harmful effects on a baby’s development, leads health professionals to recommend complete abstinence from marijuana during breastfeeding. As always, mothers should consult with healthcare providers to discuss their specific situations and explore safer alternatives for managing health issues.

Are cannabinoids in breast milk?

The cannabinoids THC and CBD are present and accumulate in breast milk after maternal cannabis use, whether by inhalation or edible ingestion. They appear rapidly after exposure and may remain present for at least 1–2 days.

How long do you wait to breastfeed after smoking THC?

Similar to alcohol, it is recommended that if a mother does occasionally use inhaled cannabis, she should wait three to four hours after use before breastfeeding to reduce how much THC is in her milk. Cannabis smoke, like tobacco smoke, is also unhealthy for babies (and all people) to be around.

Can you breastfeed after taking CBD?

FDA strongly advises against the use of cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and marijuana in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Cannabis and Cannabis-derived products have become increasingly available in recent years, with new and different types of products appearing all the time.

What can you not do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

• Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
• Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
• Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

How long after smoking can I breastfeed again?

About 90 minutes after smoking, the level of nicotine in the mother’s blood and milk decreases by about half. Your baby will probably want to nurse frequently in the early weeks, so you may not always be able to wait that long between smoking and the next feeding.

How long does it take THC to leave your body when pregnant?

Metabolized by the liver, the half-life of THC varies from 20–36 hours in occasional users to 4–5 days in heavy users and may require up to 30 days for complete excretion. In animal models, THC crossed the placenta, producing fetal plasma levels that were approximately 10% of maternal levels after acute exposure.

Should I still breastfeed if I vape?

E-cigarettes, vaping and breastfeeding
New mums are advised to use licensed NRT products for help with quitting smoking and staying smokefree. However, if you do choose to use an e-cigarette to help you stay smokefree, it’s still better to carry on breastfeeding as the benefits will outweigh any potential harm.

Can you test breastmilk for drugs?

Many drugs ingested by lactating women are detectable in milk. The short- and long-term health effects of infant exposure to drugs via milk remain a subject of active research and are subject to evolving clinical guidance.

Can smoke pass through breast milk?

Using tobacco or electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) while breastfeeding can allow harmful chemicals to pass from the mother to the infant through breast milk or secondhand smoke exposure. Mothers who use tobacco or e-cigarettes should be encouraged to quit.

How much THC is in breast milk?

The concentration of THC in breastmilk is variable, but a mean of 2.5% (range 0.4% to 8.7%) of the maternal dose has been reported with cannabinoids (THC and its active metabolite, 11-OH-THC, and CBD) detectable in breastmilk as early as 1 to 4 hours after use and for up to 6 days after use through various routes of …