Can I take CBD while breastfeeding?

Consuming CBD on a daily basis is very common, and many people take it as part of their daily routine along with supplements and vitamins. But does CBD present any risks or side effects for the mother or the baby during lactation? Read on to find out everything there is to know about taking CBD while breastfeeding.

How breastfeeding works

There is no doubt that breastfeeding can be one of the most important moments in the life of a newborn. Breast milk not only provides a means of nourishment, but it can also protect the baby from infection and disease, and even promote growth. Breastfeeding is also responsible for strengthening the emotional bond between mother and child.

As we know, breastfeeding is a natural part of life and all female mammals are capable of producing milk in their mammary glands. But how does breastfeeding work? Knowing how milk is produced can give us some answers about how the substances that mothers consume, including CBD, can affect the milk itself.

The body produces milk in response to a demand from hormones, especially during pregnancy and the first few days postpartum. This is controlled by what is known as the endocrine system (not to be confused with the endocannabinoid system). This system consists of a series of glands and organs that control and regulate bodily functions.

The endocrine system also creates colostrum, the first milk a mother produces that contains a high concentration of immune cells and antibodies. The colostrum gives the baby its first nutrients to ensure a healthy start in life.

After the initial production of colostrum, the body produces normal breast milk, which contains a higher amount of fat, lactose, essential vitamins and proteins. In the first months of lactation, the hormone prolactin stimulates milk production. Over time, the body gets used to this daily demand and produces milk in a much more mechanical way. Throughout the process, the content of breast milk will depend a lot on the foods, drinks and other substances that the mother ingests.

To guarantee the highest quality of milk, its production is based on a healthy and balanced diet. Although the foods that the mother consumes can influence the taste, things like alcohol and certain substances and medicines can seriously affect the quality of the milk produced, and even harm the baby and affect its development.

CBD for lactating mothers

As we have mentioned, many people who consume CBD do so in a similar way to taking daily vitamins and supplements. The popularity of cannabidiol consumption is undeniable, whether in the form of pills, gel capsules or sublingually (CBD oil).

Although the formal research that has been done on CBD to date is still quite limited, the cannabinoid does have some potential benefits to be aware of. That being said, CBD should not be taken as a quick fix for serious health problems, physical or mental, and it is important to establish a baseline of how you feel before, during and after taking the cannabinoid, in order to establish an ideal dose.

Due to the impact that breastfeeding can have on the body and mind, it is normal for many mothers to be curious if they can take CBD to alleviate possible discomfort. Although the effects of CBD are different in each person, is it advisable to consume CBD while breastfeeding?

Is CBD oil safe while breastfeeding?

All Cibdol CBD products are made using market-leading extraction methods, ensuring they are free from contaminants, unwanted chemicals, or adverse levels of THC. Even so, despite the fact that every measure is taken to produce high-quality CBD, it is not clear whether it is safe to consume CBD oil while breastfeeding.

It goes without saying that THC-rich marijuana strains and products should be avoided while pregnant or lactating, without a doubt. Since breast milk can contain THC for up to six days after consumption, it could have serious effects on a child. Regular consumption can have major consequences on fetal brain development and negatively influence cognitive function. Although the psychotropic element in marijuana is believed to be responsible for these factors, does CBD carry the same potential risks?

As we have already indicated before, everything a mother consumes is transferred into breast milk, including CBD oil. Some scientists say the overall impact is unclear, as the CBD samples tested could be contaminated with other cannabinoids, persistent THC, and other ingredients. The combination of all factors makes the results inconclusive.

Although the research is still in its infancy, right now it is difficult to say what the true effects of CBD oil are on breast milk, and this is due to the lack of specific studies on the subject.

However, one study^[1] conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2018 analyzed 54 samples from 50 lactating women who had used marijuana, to measure THC and CBD levels. The results confirmed the presence of THC in 63% of the samples and CBD in 9%. Therefore, it is clear proof that CBD can be transferred from mother to child through breast milk.

Are CBD gummies safe while breastfeeding?

CBD gummies are a very common alternative to CBD oil or capsules. Unfortunately, due to their CBD content, nursing mothers should also avoid them for now. Don’t be fooled by their candy-like appearance – they contain the same CBD as the oils and capsules.

It’s safe to say that regardless of how CBD is ingested, until enough research is done, public opinion is likely to remain on this contrary stance.

What are the alternatives to CBD oil while breastfeeding?

There is no question that CBD can offer some potential benefits in the right settings and circumstances. Although mothers should avoid taking it during pregnancy and lactation, topical CBD products such as creams and cosmetics could be a viable option. This is because the CBD in topical products does not reach the bloodstream or contribute to the production of breast milk.

CBD and breastfeeding: more research is needed

To conclude the article, the true influence of CBD and its impact on lactation is not yet known. The investigation is in its infancy and many questions remain to be answered. There are simply not enough studies on possible interactions between a newborn and CBD to be able to confirm whether or not it is safe.

For now, it’s probably best to avoid consuming CBD oil while breastfeeding. It is very important to note that breast milk contains endocannabinoids. Our endocannabinoid system produces these chemicals by nature, and there is no doubt that they play a fundamental role in the biological development of a child.

Since CBD’s lack of toxicity is a significant factor in its favor, the real challenge is gaining an understanding of this mechanism and recognizing any potential impacts or side effects for both mother and child. But if you have doubts or concerns related to the subject, you have to discuss it with your doctor.

As the investigation progresses, this information will be updated. If you want to stay up to date with all important developments, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter.