NO. Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits but using marijuana while breastfeeding raises safety concerns due to insufficient data. Mothers should avoid marijuana and CBD to protect their infants from potential harm.
Key Points on Cannabis and Breastfeeding:
- THC in Breast Milk:
- THC, marijuana’s main component, is fat-soluble and releases slowly into the bloodstream, potentially exposing infants to its effects for an extended time.
- Studies indicate breast milk may contain THC for six days or more after use.
- Contaminants in Marijuana Products:
- Marijuana, including edibles, oils, and concentrates, can transfer chemicals to infants through breast milk.
- These products may also contain harmful contaminants like pesticides and heavy metals, risking both mother and child’s health and possibly affecting an infant’s brain development.
- Research Gaps:
- Research on the effects of marijuana and CBD on breastfeeding infants is scarce and inconclusive, with no significant studies in the U.S. due to federal restrictions.
Safety Recommendations:
- Mothers using medicinal marijuana must weigh its risks against breastfeeding’s benefits.
- If a mother continues to use marijuana or CBD products while breastfeeding, she should significantly reduce her intake.
- To prevent secondhand smoke exposure, avoid smoking marijuana near babies or children.
- Marijuana can impair judgment and caregiving abilities.
Breastfeeding Benefits:
- Nutrition: Breast milk adapts to a baby’s growing nutritional needs.
- Protection: Breastfeeding reduces the risk of diseases like diabetes, asthma, obesity, and SIDS and lowers the likelihood of ear infections and stomach issues.
- Immunity: Antibodies in breast milk strengthen a baby’s immune system.
- Convenience: Breastfeeding is flexible, requiring no formula mixing or bottle preparation, and offers comfort during travel.
- Maternal Health: It lowers the mother’s risk of certain cancers, diabetes, and hypertension.
Guidelines:
- The CDC, Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the World Health Organization recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding with complementary foods for up to two years or more.
While the data is not conclusive, prioritizing the health and safety of both mother and infant is crucial. To minimize risks, breastfeeding mothers should refrain from using marijuana or related products.
