Cannabis Use While Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
The effects of cannabis while breastfeeding are not fully known, but there are some potential risks to consider. Cannabis contains a psychoactive compound called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which can pass into breast milk and affect the baby’s brain development12 THC can also stay in breast milk for up to 6 days or longer, depending on how often the mother uses cannabis2
Some of the possible effects of cannabis exposure on breastfed infants are:
Low birth weight and reduced head circumference 3
Cognitive and behavioral deficits, such as attention, learning, memory, emotional response, and impulsivity problems 123
Higher risk of developing a substance use disorder later in life 3
Decreased immune function due to lower levels of secretory IgA (SIgA) in breast milk 4
In addition to the effects on the baby, using cannabis while breastfeeding can also impair the mother’s ability to care for her infant, as well as expose the baby to other harmful substances, such as heavy metals, bacteria, and pesticides that may be present in cannabis products25
Therefore, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers avoid using cannabis or products containing cannabidiol (CBD) in any form while breastfeeding4 If you need help to quit or reduce your cannabis use, you can talk to your healthcare provider or contact a local support group. You can also find more information and resources on the following websites:
CDC: Marijuana and Public Health
Drugs.com: Cannabis use while Breastfeeding
Healthline: Smoking Weed While Breastfeeding: Facts You Should Know
Learn more:
2. drugs.com
4. cdc.gov
6. cdc.gov
7. drugs.com
According to the FDA, THC can remain in breast milk for up to 6 days or longer, depending on how often the mother uses cannabis1 However, a recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that THC can linger in breast milk for up to 6 weeks after the last use23 This means that infants who are breastfed by mothers who use cannabis may be exposed to THC for a prolonged period of time, which could affect their brain development and health. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid using cannabis or products containing CBD in any form while breastfeeding1
Learn more:
1. cdc.gov
Cannabis use while breastfeeding is a controversial topic. There is limited research on the effects of cannabis on breastfed infants, but the evidence that does exist suggests that it is best to avoid cannabis use while breastfeeding.
The active ingredient in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can pass into breast milk. THC is a fat-soluble substance, which means that it can stay in the body for a long time. This means that even if a mother uses nnabis occasionally, THC can still be present in her breast milk.
The amount of THC that passes into breast milk depends on a number of factors, including the mother’s metabolism, the amount of cannabis she uses, and how often she uses it. However, even small amounts of THC can have an impact on a breastfed infant.
Studies have shown that babies who are exposed to THC through breast milk are more likely to be sleepy and lethargic. They may also have difficulty feeding and gaining weight. Additionally, THC exposure may affect the baby’s brain development and nervous system.
Some research has also linked cannabis use during breastfeeding to an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the leading cause of death in infants between the ages of 1 month and 1 year.
While more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of cannabis exposure on breastfed infants, the evidence so far suggests that it is best to avoid cannabis use while breastfeeding.
If you are breastfeeding and are concerned about cannabis use, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits of cannabis use and can provide you with support if you decide to quit.
Here are some tips for quitting cannabis while breastfeeding:
- Talk to your doctor about quitting. Your doctor can help you develop a quit plan and can provide you with support.
- Join a support group. There are support groups available for women who are trying to quit cannabis while breastfeeding.
- Avoid triggers. Identify the things that make you want to smoke or vape cannabis, and try to avoid them.
- Find healthy coping mechanisms. Find healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or spending time with loved ones.
Quitting cannabis can be difficult, but it is important to remember that you are doing it for the health of your baby. With the right support, you can quit cannabis and have a healthy breastfeeding relationship.