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What happens if I take CBD while breastfeeding?

The Risks of Taking CBD While Breastfeeding
As the popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) continues to rise, many new mothers are left wondering about its safety during breastfeeding. The consensus among health experts and regulatory bodies is clear: caution is advised when it comes to using CBD while nursing.
Lack of Comprehensive Research
Currently, there is no comprehensive research that definitively studies the effects of CBD on breastfeeding mothers or their infants. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has acknowledged this gap in knowledge, stating that they are actively collecting data to understand the potential harmful effects of CBD during breastfeeding. This lack of research raises significant concerns about the safety of CBD products for nursing mothers and their babies.
Potential Risks to Infants
The FDA has warned against the use of CBD and THC products while breastfeeding, citing potential risks such as liver toxicity and extreme sleepiness in infants. These risks are particularly alarming given that CBD can be transferred through breast milk, as some studies have detected its presence in the milk of mothers who used cannabis products. This transfer could expose infants to unknown effects, which is why many health professionals recommend avoiding CBD altogether during this critical period.
Recommendations from Health Authorities
Health organizations, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strongly advise against the use of any marijuana compounds, including CBD, during breastfeeding. They emphasize that if a breastfeeding mother chooses to use CBD, she should significantly reduce her intake. This recommendation stems from the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of CBD on a developing infant.
Alternatives and Natural Remedies
For mothers seeking relief from conditions such as anxiety or pain, experts suggest exploring natural alternatives that have been studied more extensively and are considered safer during breastfeeding. Options like mindfulness practices, physical therapy, or certain herbal remedies may provide relief without the associated risks of CBD.
Conclusion
In summary, while CBD may offer various benefits, the potential risks to breastfeeding infants, coupled with the lack of comprehensive research, lead health authorities to recommend avoiding CBD during this time. As the FDA continues to study the effects of CBD, mothers are encouraged to prioritize the health and safety of their infants by steering clear of these products until more conclusive evidence is available.

How long does CBD stay in your system?

CBD can stay in a person’s system from hours to about a month. This depends on how much a person takes and how they take it. The half-life of CBD in the body can range from about 1 hour to up to 5 days . Half-life is how long the body takes to eliminate one-half of a substance.

Can cannabinoids pass through breast milk?

Components of cannabis can stay in the body after use and pass to your baby. Cannabis is broken down in the body. Some parts are stored in the body and can pass onto your baby during pregnancy and through human milk, both while you are using and weeks later.

Can CBD help with postpartum?

In the last couple of years, CBD has become extremely popular for treating a variety of symptoms associated with postpartum mood disorders, like anxiety, irritability, and insomnia. It can also be helpful when it comes to the physical healing process after birth.

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 does CBD stay in your breast milk?

Additionally, some products, including cannabidiol (CBD) products, may contain other contaminants that could be dangerous to a mother and her infant. Such contaminants include pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, and fungi. Breast milk can contain THC for up to 6 days after use, according to one study.

Is it OK to have CBD while breastfeeding?

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 is the best delivery method for CBD?

Sublingual (Oils, Tinctures, and Oral Drops)
This delivery method allows the CBD to enter the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in your mouth. After holding the CBD under your tongue, the rest of the CBD is swallowed and makes it to the digestive tract, then the liver, where it’s distributed throughout the body.

Can you drink trip CBD while breastfeeding?

If you are considering using cannabis, or any products containing THC or CBD, you should be aware of the following: FDA strongly advises that during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, you avoid using CBD, THC, or marijuana in any form.

Can you use CBD oil while breastfeeding forum?

The FDA strongly advises against CBD use while breastfeeding, in part because it hasn’t been studied but we know THC is a problem and in part because CBD products are not well-regulated and often contain THC or other dangerous contaminants.

What are the side effects of breastfeeding while pregnant?

What are the risks of breastfeeding while pregnant?

  • sore nipples.
  • nausea (may be triggered during letdown)
  • fatigue.
  • feelings of being overwhelmed.
  • a decreased milk supply.
  • changes to your breast milk — the color, consistency, and taste may change.
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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