What are the side effects of THC in breastmilk?

Understanding the Side Effects of THC in Breast Milk
As the legalization of cannabis continues to spread across the United States, many new mothers are grappling with the implications of using marijuana while breastfeeding. One of the primary concerns is the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of cannabis, in breast milk and its potential effects on infants.
THC Presence in Breast Milk
Research indicates that THC is indeed excreted into breast milk, albeit in small quantities. A study conducted by Children’s Hospital Colorado found that THC can linger in breast milk for an extended period, with detection times ranging from six days to over six weeks after consumption. This prolonged presence is particularly concerning as it suggests that even infrequent use of marijuana could expose infants to THC during critical developmental periods.
Lack of Clear Peak Concentration
Unlike alcohol, which has a predictable pattern of peak concentration and decline in breast milk, THC does not exhibit a consistent timeline. Studies have shown that when THC is detected in breast milk, there is no clear peak point at which its concentration is highest, making it difficult for mothers to determine safe times to breastfeed after using cannabis. This unpredictability raises significant concerns about the timing of breastfeeding in relation to marijuana use.
Potential Side Effects on Infants
The implications of THC exposure through breast milk are serious. Research has suggested that infants who are exposed to THC may face long-term neurological issues, including developmental delays and impaired motor skills. These potential side effects stem from THC’s interaction with the brain’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in brain development and function.
Moreover, the psychoactive effects of THC can lead to altered states of consciousness in infants, which may manifest as increased irritability or changes in sleep patterns. The long-term consequences of such exposure are still being studied, but the existing evidence points to significant risks that warrant caution.
Recommendations for Breastfeeding Mothers
Given the findings surrounding THC in breast milk, health professionals generally advise against the use of marijuana during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The American Academy of Pediatrics and other health organizations recommend that mothers abstain from cannabis to avoid potential harm to their infants.
In conclusion, while the legalization of cannabis may offer new freedoms for many, the implications for breastfeeding mothers and their infants are profound. The presence of THC in breast milk, its unpredictable concentration, and the potential for serious developmental issues underscore the need for careful consideration and informed decision-making regarding marijuana use during this critical period of child development.

How long does a black and mild stay in your system?

How long does nicotine stay in your body? Nicotine itself is typically metabolized and cleared from the bloodstream within 1-3 days after the last use. However, its metabolite, cotinine, can remain detectable in the body for up to 10 days in blood and saliva, and even longer in urine and hair follicles.

Is THC safe while breastfeeding aap?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists9 and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advise against marijuana use during pregnancy and lactation. Similarly, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine recommends counseling of breastfeeding mothers to reduce or eliminate marijuana use.

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.

What happens if you breastfeed on THC?

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.

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 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 THC stay in your breastmilk?

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 happens when you sleep high?

However, the risks of sleeping high may involve: Impaired sleep quality. Disruption of rapid eye movement (REM sleep) Next-day effects (e.g., reduced alertness, accident risk)

How long should I wait to breastfeed after hitting a vape?

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.