Did you know that breast milk contains cannabinoids? When lactating, a woman’s natural endocannabinoids and metabolites pass through breast milk to the baby. But what about THC from cannabis?
THC can be detected in the breast milk of lactating cannabis users, though usually in very low quantities. Recent studies suggest that THC in breast milk might not be as harmful as once thought, but more research is needed.
Cannabis use among pregnant individuals has increased, with JAMA research noting a rise from 3.4% in 2002 to 7.0% in 2017. The CDC also found that 4.2% of women used marijuana during pregnancy. As cannabis legalization spreads, understanding its impact on breastfeeding is crucial.
How Long Does THC Stay in Breast Milk?
If you are a cannabis consumer and hope to breastfeed, you may wonder, “How long does THC stay in breast milk?” Studies have shown that THC can be present in breast milk anywhere from 6 days to 6 weeks after the last consumption. THC is stored within fat cells, and since breast milk is naturally high in fat, it’s an ideal substance for THC to bind to, allowing it to remain for an extended period.
Is It Safe to Breastfeed While Using Cannabis?
One of the most crucial questions is whether it’s safe to breastfeed while using cannabis. Unfortunately, due to decades of cannabis prohibition, there isn’t enough research to make a definitive conclusion.
Some studies suggest potential risks, such as:
Some studies suggest potential risks, such as:
- Effects on Neurotransmitters: Possible impact on brain chemistry.
- Nervous System Development: Concerns about development during infancy.
- Endocannabinoid Function: Disruption of natural cannabinoid processes.
However, a 2023 NIH publication found no significant differences in infant adverse reactions, growth, or neurodevelopmental outcomes between groups with detectable THC levels in breast milk and those without.
How Long After Smoking Can I Breastfeed?
If you want to avoid any risk of THC passing through to your baby, it’s advised to either avoid THC consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding or start pumping and dumping milk after consuming cannabis. The duration for pumping and dumping depends on factors like consumption frequency and BMI.
- High BMI Or Regular Use: THC may linger longer in breast milk.
- Healthy BMI And Occasional Use: THC may leave the system more quickly.
Studies show that THC concentration in breast milk peaks about 1 hour after consumption. If you have a healthy BMI and consume occasionally, THC may leave your system more quickly.
Cannabis Consumption Methods and Breastfeeding
Now, let’s look at the safety of consuming cannabis through various methods while breastfeeding.
Consuming edibles results in THC and other cannabinoids being excreted in breast milk. Because edibles are processed differently by the body, THC stays in your system longer than with inhalation methods. It’s advised to:
- Avoid edibles while breastfeeding.
- Pump and dump for several hours after consumption if edibles are ingested.
Smoking cannabis flower is popular, but not ideal for breastfeeding mothers. Vaporizing cannabis might be safer due to cooler air ingestion, reducing cough and offering lighter dosing. However, any form of smoking can have adverse effects on both mom and baby.
- Vaporizing: Cooler air, reduced coughing, easier dosing.
- Smoking: Can produce harmful by-products affecting both mother and baby.
Cannabis concentrates offer higher potency. Cartridge vaping may be safer than smoking, but higher THC concentrations can lead to more THC in breast milk. It’s best to avoid highly concentrated products if concerned about potential effects.
- Cartridge Vaping: Safer than smoking, but high potency.
- Concentrates: Higher THC levels, more likely to transfer through breast milk.
Using CBD products might be an alternative for those worried about THC’s intoxicating effects. While CBD is also transferred through breast milk, its concentration is much lower than THC. However, significant research on the safety of consuming CBD while breastfeeding is still lacking.
- Lower Concentration: Less likely to affect the baby.
- Lack Of Research: Safety not well-established.
Final Takeaways
Determining the safety of consuming cannabis while breastfeeding is complex due to limited research. Here are some key points to consider:
Summary of Key Points
THC Presence In Breast Milk
THC can remain in breast milk from 6 days to 6 weeks after consumption, due to its binding to fat cells.
Safety Concerns
While some studies suggest potential risks, recent research indicates no significant differences in infant outcomes with low levels of THC in breast milk.
Consumption Methods
- Edibles: Avoid or pump and dump for several hours after consumption.
- Flower: Vaporizing may be safer than smoking, but both should be approached with caution.
- Concentrates: Higher potency products should generally be avoided.
- CBD: Potentially safer, but lacks extensive research on its effects during breastfeeding.
Consult Professionals
Always speak with an OB/GYN, pediatrician, and lactation consultant for personalized advice and guidance.
Recommendations for Safe Cannabis Use While Breastfeeding
Avoid THC During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
This is the safest option to prevent any potential risks to the baby.
Choose Lower Potency Products
Opt for products with lower THC concentrations and avoid highly potent concentrates.
Pump and Dump
If you consume cannabis, consider pumping and dumping your breast milk for several hours afterward to minimize THC exposure to your baby.
Consider CBD
If you need the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids, CBD might be a safer alternative, though more research is needed.
Monitor Your Baby
Watch for any changes in your baby’s behavior or development and consult healthcare providers if you have any concerns.
Consultation and Support
For those who wish to be completely safe, abstaining from cannabis throughout pregnancy and nursing is the best approach. Many mothers, however, find a balance by using caution and opting for CBD or topical products for pain and inflammation.
If you would like to learn more about consuming cannabis responsibly, schedule a consultation with a medical cannabis professional. Additionally, consult with a qualified OB/GYN, pediatrician, and lactation consultant for any health and nursing concerns.
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