Is it safe to breastfeed after taking edibles?

The Safety of Breastfeeding After Consuming Edibles
As the legalization of cannabis continues to spread across the United States, many new mothers are left grappling with the question: Is it safe to breastfeed after consuming cannabis edibles? The consensus among health experts is clear: it is advisable to avoid marijuana in all forms while breastfeeding.
Understanding the Risks
The primary concern revolves around tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis. Research indicates that THC is excreted into breast milk, albeit in small quantities. Studies have shown that the duration of THC detection in breast milk can vary significantly, ranging from six days to over six weeks after consumption. This means that even if a mother consumes edibles and feels the effects have worn off, THC may still be present in her milk, potentially affecting her baby.
Health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics, have stated that no amount of cannabis has been proven safe for breastfeeding mothers. The lack of comprehensive research on the long-term effects of cannabis on infants further complicates the issue. Experts emphasize that the potential risks to the developing brain of a breastfeeding infant are not worth taking the chance.
Expert Recommendations
Many healthcare professionals recommend that lactating mothers refrain from using cannabis altogether. A study highlighted that mothers using marijuana for chronic pain management should consider discontinuing its use while breastfeeding. The prevailing advice is to err on the side of caution, as the effects of cannabis on infants are still not fully understood.
Moreover, the FDA has been actively collecting data on the effects of cannabis, including CBD, during breastfeeding, but as of now, there is no definitive guidance that supports its safety. The uncertainty surrounding the impact of cannabis on a breastfeeding infant’s health underscores the importance of caution.
Conclusion
In summary, while the allure of cannabis edibles may be tempting for some new mothers, the potential risks to their infants are significant. Health experts strongly advise against consuming cannabis in any form while breastfeeding. The safety of the baby should always take precedence, and until more conclusive research is available, it is best to avoid any substances that could compromise their health.

Can breastfeeding moms eat edibles?

Chemicals from marijuana can pass from a mother to her infant through breast milk. This includes marijuana in any form, such as edibles, oils, or other concentrates. The chemicals can potentially affect a newborn’s brain development and result in hyperactivity, poor cognitive function, and other long-term consequences.

Can you take calm gummies while breastfeeding?

Yes, healthy pregnant and breastfeeding women can safely take Natural Calm magnesium. In fact, magnesium needs will increase during gestation and lactation.

How long after taking drugs can I breastfeed?

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.

How long do edibles stay in your breast milk?

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. That means you can’t just “pump and dump” milk after ingesting it to avoid exposing your baby to THC.

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.

What drugs can be passed 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.

Which drugs cannot be taken when breastfeeding?

ANSWER: Only a few drugs pose a clinically significant risk to breastfed babies. In general, antineoplastics, drugs of abuse, some anticonvulsants, ergot alkaloids, and radiopharmaceuticals should not be taken, and levels of amiodarone, cyclosporine, and lithium should be monitored.

Is CBD gummies safe while breastfeeding?

CBD gummies are made by infusing CBD into a gummy base, often along with other ingredients such as flavorings and sweeteners. The FDA has warned against the use of CBD and THC products during breastfeeding, citing the potential risks to infant development.

How long after getting high can you breastfeed?

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 drugs pass through breast milk?

Almost any drug that’s present in the blood will transfer into breast milk to some extent. Most medications do so at low levels and pose no real risk to most infants. There are exceptions, though. Some drugs can be found in high levels in breast milk.