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

Understanding THC in Breast Milk
The question of how long tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, remains detectable in breast milk is crucial for nursing mothers who use marijuana. Recent studies have shed light on this issue, revealing a complex picture of THC’s persistence in breast milk and its potential implications for infants.
Duration of THC Detection
Research indicates that THC can linger in breast milk for varying lengths of time, with findings suggesting a range from six days to over six weeks after consumption. A significant study found that 63% of breast milk samples contained detectable levels of THC for up to six days post-use, with an average concentration of about 9.47 nanograms per milliliter. This suggests that even after a mother abstains from using marijuana, THC can still be present in her milk, potentially exposing her infant to the substance.
Moreover, another study highlighted that THC levels in breast milk peak approximately one hour after use, but the compound remains in the system for a longer duration, with some estimates indicating that it could be detectable for up to six weeks. This prolonged presence is attributed to THC’s storage in fat cells, which means it can be released slowly back into the bloodstream and subsequently into breast milk.
Implications for Nursing Mothers
The implications of THC in breast milk are significant. While the average infant may receive only about 0.07 milligrams of THC per day through breast milk, the cumulative effect of this exposure is still a concern for many health professionals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also noted that THC can remain in breast milk for up to six days, reinforcing the need for caution among breastfeeding mothers who consume cannabis.
Conclusion
In summary, the duration THC remains in breast milk can vary widely, with studies indicating a range from six days to over six weeks. This variability underscores the importance of informed decision-making for nursing mothers regarding cannabis use. As research continues to evolve, it remains essential for mothers to consider the potential risks associated with THC exposure to their infants through breast milk.

How long will 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.

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 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.

Do I have to pump and dump after taking medication?

If it is a short-term medication, pumping and dumping will keep your milk supply up until you can resume nursing. If you are on incompatible medications for the long term, discuss options with your provider. While you may need to wean, donor breast milk is an option for your baby or you may choose to use formula.

How long does THC stay in breastmilk?

THC Gets into Breastmilk
It can also cause poor sucking when breastfeeding and even slow down growth. THC is stored in your fat cells, which means it sticks around for a long time. Studies show that although THC levels in breast milk peak one hour after use, it remains in your system for six days after use.

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.

What drugs pass through breast milk?

Most drug molecules, including alcohol, nicotine and caffeine, are small enough to enter milk. Exceptions are drugs with high molecular weights such as heparins and insulin.

How long after drinking can I breastfeed?

Breastfeeding mothers who have consumed alcohol can wait 2 hours (per drink) before breastfeeding. This time will allow alcohol levels in her breast milk to go down. If the mother cannot wait to feed her infant, she can feed milk that was previously expressed when the mother was not drinking.

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.