Using Marijuana while Breastfeeding – Is it Safe?

Using Cannabis while Breastfeeding - is it Safe?

While there are myriad benefits to breastfeeding, there is not enough data to say if it is safe for mothers who are using marijuana while breastfeeding. Until researchers answer this question, breastfeeding mothers should avoid using marijuana or CBD products to prevent passing harmful chemicals to their infants through breast milk or secondhand smoke. 

Potential Adverse effects 

Here are some critical points regarding cannabis use and breastfeeding:

1.      THC in Breast Milk:

• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the main active component of marijuana. The body stores it in fat and slowly releases it into the bloodstream.
• This slower release of THC may expose infants to an unknown amount of this chemical for an extended period. 
• Breast milk can contain THC for up to 6 days after use, according to one study. Other studies have noted even longer duration.

2.      Contaminants in THC Products:

• Chemicals from marijuana in any form, such as edibles, oils, or other concentrates, pass from a mother to her infant through breast milk. Some marijuana products, including those containing CBD, may contain contaminants (e.g., pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, and fungi). These chemicals could be dangerous to both the mother and her infant and can affect a newborn's brain development. This effect results in hyperactivity, poor cognitive function, and other long-term consequences. 
• Cannabis users should not smoke marijuana products around babies or children to minimize secondhand smoke exposure.

3.      Limited Data on using marijuana while breastfeeding:

• Data on the effects of infant exposure to marijuana and CBD through breastfeeding are limited and conflicting.
• Since cannabis is federally illegal, there are no reputable studies conducted in the United States specifically on this topic.

Safety Recommendations

Mothers using medicinal marijuana always need to balance the benefits of breastfeeding with any potential risks of marijuana exposure. 

• If a breastfeeding mother continues to use marijuana or CBD, she should be encouraged to reduce her intake significantly. 
• To minimize secondhand smoke exposure, parents or caregivers should not smoke marijuana products around babies or children.
• Marijuana use also impairs a mother or caregiver's judgment and ability to care for an infant.

Breastfeeding Benefits

Breastfeeding has excellent health benefits for both babies and mothers. Breast milk provides a baby with ideal nutrition and supports growth and development. Breastfeeding helps protect the baby and mom against certain illnesses and diseases.

Five great benefits of breastfeeding

1. Nutrition - Breast milk is an excellent nutritional source for babies. As babies grow, the mother's breast milk changes to meet their dietary needs.
2. Protection - Breastfeeding protects babies against both short—and long-term illness and disease. These babies have a lower risk of type 1 diabetes, asthma, obesity, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In addition, they are less likely to have ear infections and stomach bugs.
3. Antibodies - Mothers share antibodies with their babies through breast milk. The antibodies help babies develop a robust immune system and protect them from illnesses.
4. Convenience - Mothers can breastfeed anytime without worrying about mixing formula or preparing bottles. When traveling, breastfeeding can also comfort babies whose routine is disrupted.
5. Mother's Health - Breastfeeding has health benefits for the mother, too! Breastfeeding can reduce the mother's risk of cancers of the breast or ovaries, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure.

The CDC recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months for these benefits. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends continued breastfeeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods until children are 12 months old or older.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization also recommend exclusive breastfeeding for about six months, continued breastfeeding, and appropriate complementary foods for children two years or older.

Breastfeeding while using Cannabis - Is it Safe?

Despite insufficient data to provide a conclusive answer, it is essential to prioritize the health and safety of both mothers and infants. Due to the potential risk of the mother passing CBD, THC, or marijuana in any form to the infant through breast milk or secondhand smoke exposure, breastfeeding mothers should not use marijuana or marijuana-containing products to limit potential risks to the infant.