CBD Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know

CBD Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
Cannabis Specialist & Advocate for Natural Healing

Luca Vanetti

Cannabis Specialist & Advocate for Natural Healing

Table of contents

s more people turn to CBD (cannabidiol) for its potential benefits, questions are beginning to arise about its use during breastfeeding. If you're a new parent or expecting, you might be wondering, "Can I use CBD while breastfeeding?" or "Is it safe for my baby?" In this blog, we'll explore what CBD is, review some studies, discuss its safety, and give you the lowdown on topical use, as well as what trusted sources like KellyMom say about it.

What is CBD?

CBD is a compound found in cannabis plants, but unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it doesn't produce a "high." CBD has become popular for its potential to support a variety of health concerns, including anxiety, chronic pain, and sleep issues. It's typically found in oils, tinctures, edibles, and creams, making it easy to incorporate into daily life.

The big question, however, is whether it's safe to use CBD while breastfeeding.

Can You Use CBD While Breastfeeding?

The short answer is, it's complicated. There's still not enough research to make a definitive call on whether CBD is completely safe while breastfeeding. While CBD is generally considered safe for adults, the effects on infants are less clear. Babies are more vulnerable to substances that pass through breast milk, and this is especially important when it comes to compounds like CBD.

Studies on CBD and Breastfeeding

There are very few studies on the specific effects of CBD while breastfeeding, but some research can offer a bit of insight.

One study from 2018 suggests that CBD does pass into breast milk, though the levels are not yet fully understood. A 2017 study published in the journal "Neurotherapeutics" highlighted that cannabinoids, including CBD, can affect the brain's development. While CBD has been shown to have neuroprotective properties in some adult studies, it's still unclear whether this carries over to babies and whether it could potentially impact their brain development or other bodily systems.

Some experts recommend erring on the side of caution, especially if you're breastfeeding a newborn, as their organs and systems are still developing. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has not yet issued any official guidelines regarding CBD during breastfeeding, which further highlights the need for more research.

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Is CBD Safe for Breastfeeding Moms?

While there isn't a wealth of studies directly examining CBD during breastfeeding, many healthcare professionals recommend avoiding cannabis products (including CBD) while nursing due to the potential for unknown risks. Since CBD can pass into breast milk, there's concern about how it might affect a baby's developing body.

On the other hand, CBD is considered non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn't have the same intoxicating effects as THC. This is reassuring for many breastfeeding moms who are wary of THC's effects on their baby. However, even though CBD isn't "high"-inducing, it's still important to approach its use during breastfeeding with caution.

Topical CBD and Breastfeeding

What about topical CBD products, like lotions, balms, and creams? Topical CBD is a different story since it doesn't enter the bloodstream the same way that ingesting CBD does. This means there's less chance of CBD passing into breast milk when applied to the skin. While there's still not enough research to give a definitive green light, topical use may be a safer option compared to oral consumption, since the compound remains localized on the skin and doesn't circulate in the body as much.

If you're dealing with sore muscles, joint pain, or even dry skin while breastfeeding, topical CBD could offer relief without much concern for your baby. That said, it's always best to consult your healthcare provider before using any new products.

What Does KellyMom Say About CBD and Breastfeeding?

KellyMom, one of the most trusted resources for breastfeeding and parenting advice, advises caution regarding CBD use during breastfeeding. They recommend waiting for more conclusive studies to come out before using CBD while nursing. KellyMom suggests that babies are more vulnerable to substances that pass through breast milk, and until more research is available, it's better to play it safe.

According to KellyMom's general stance on herbal products during breastfeeding, it's essential to keep in mind that some herbs, supplements, or other compounds may not be safe for infants. Always consult with your pediatrician or lactation consultant if you have any concerns about substances like CBD.

Is CBD a Good Option for Breastfeeding Moms?

If you're a new mom struggling with stress, pain, or sleep issues, CBD might seem like an appealing natural solution. However, until more research is done on how CBD affects breastfeeding, it's wise to err on the side of caution. Many moms choose to wait until they are done breastfeeding before introducing CBD into their routine, while others may use it topically with the guidance of their healthcare provider.

In the meantime, consider other ways to relieve common postpartum symptoms like anxiety or pain that are proven to be safe for breastfeeding moms. Regular exercise, meditation, and ensuring a good sleep routine can also help support your mental and physical health during this time.

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Conclusion: CBD and Breastfeeding - What's the Verdict?

While CBD holds a lot of potential benefits, when it comes to breastfeeding, it's essential to proceed with caution. Since CBD passes into breast milk, it's best to wait for more research to understand its potential effects on infants. If you do decide to use CBD while breastfeeding, opting for topical products and consulting your healthcare provider is likely the safest route.

At the end of the day, every mom and baby is different. So, it's important to listen to your body, keep up with the latest research, and most importantly, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant before making any decisions about CBD during breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions About CBD and Breastfeeding

There is limited research on how CBD might impact milk supply. Some anecdotal reports suggest that CBD may potentially reduce milk production, but this is not well-documented in scientific studies. It's always best to consult your healthcare provider if you're concerned about milk supply.
Since CBD can pass into breast milk, it could potentially affect your baby’s developing systems. While CBD is non-psychoactive, it’s still not fully understood how it might influence a baby's brain development, metabolism, or organ systems. More research is needed on this.
Topical CBD products (like lotions or balms) are generally considered safer than ingesting CBD because they don’t enter the bloodstream in the same way. However, it’s still a good idea to talk to your doctor before using any topical CBD, especially if you're breastfeeding.
While CBD has shown potential in managing anxiety and sleep issues, it's important to consider the lack of research on its use during breastfeeding. It's recommended to try other safe methods to manage anxiety or sleep issues, such as therapy, meditation, or lifestyle changes, before using CBD.
Experts, including organizations like KellyMom, recommend caution when using CBD while breastfeeding. Since the long-term effects on infants are not fully known, it's generally suggested to avoid CBD until more research is available. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
CBD can pass into breast milk, but there is limited research on exactly how long it stays. Some studies suggest it could remain in the milk for hours or possibly a day, depending on factors like dosage, frequency of use, and your metabolism. Always check with your doctor for more personalized guidance.

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