How long does it take for THC to leave breast milk?

Understanding THC in Breast Milk
The presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana, in breast milk has raised significant concerns among new mothers and healthcare professionals alike. As more women turn to cannabis for various reasons, understanding how long THC lingers in breast milk is crucial for ensuring the safety of breastfeeding infants.
Duration of THC Detection
Research indicates that THC can be detected in breast milk for varying lengths of time, with studies suggesting a range from six days to potentially over six weeks after use. One study highlighted that 63% of breast milk samples from mothers who used marijuana contained detectable levels of THC for up to six days post-consumption. This aligns with findings that show THC levels peak approximately one hour after use but can remain in the system for several days.
Interestingly, another study reported that while THC can be present in breast milk for up to six days, some mothers may still have detectable levels even after abstaining for 12 hours. This suggests that the metabolism and elimination of THC from breast milk can be slower than many might expect.
Implications for Breastfeeding
The implications of THC presence in breast milk are significant. On average, infants may receive about 0.07 milligrams of THC per day through breast milk, which raises questions about the potential effects on infant development. Given that THC is stored in fat cells, it can linger in the body longer than many other substances, complicating the timeline for safe breastfeeding after marijuana use.
Healthcare professionals often recommend that breastfeeding mothers who use cannabis should consider the timing of their consumption relative to feeding. While some studies suggest that abstaining for at least six days may reduce the risk of THC exposure to the infant, the variability in individual metabolism means that some mothers may need to wait longer.
Conclusion
In summary, while THC can be detected in breast milk for up to six days, some studies suggest that it may remain for even longer periods. This variability underscores the importance of caution for breastfeeding mothers who use marijuana. As research continues to evolve, it remains essential for mothers to consult healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding cannabis use while breastfeeding.

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.

How long does it take to get THC out of your breast milk?

Breast milk can contain THC for up to 6 days after use, according to one study. Other studies have noted even longer duration.

How long do I have to wait to breastfeed after smoking THC?

This leaves us, I think, with remaining questions and — in my mind — remaining reason for caution about use at all. But there is an important, concrete takeaway: If you do choose to consume cannabis while breastfeeding, waiting 5 to 10 hours after consumption to nurse is a very good idea.

How long do drugs stay in breastmilk?

A breastfeeding plan
If you do use drugs such as amphetamines or heroin as a one-off, you will need to express your breast milk in the 24 hours afterwards and throw it away before you breastfeed again. After using drugs, it is not safe for you to care for or breastfeed your baby.

How long to wait after smoking to hold a baby?

They should change their outer clothes on return, wash their hands and rinse their mouth – traces of smoke can linger on clothing and then be released back into the atmosphere of the room they’re in for up to three hours after smoking. After smoking they should wait at least 25 minutes before handling a baby.

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.

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.

How long does it take for THC to leave the umbilical cord?

The detection window for most drugs of abuse in meconium and umbilical cord testing is up to approximately 20 weeks (some drugs such as methamphetamine may be less).

How long after smoking a vape can I breastfeed?

Limit your baby’s exposure
Nurse your baby before you smoke or vape, not after. This way your body will have more time to reduce the level of nicotine in your breastmilk. It takes about 1.5 hours after smoking for the nicotine level in your breastmilk to drop by 50%. Don’t smoke when you breastfeed or hold your baby.

Are there 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.