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The choice to breastfeed is significant, and many parents thoroughly research this decision before their child arrives. Breastfeeding offers numerous benefits for both mother and baby, including antibodies and the release of oxytocin. With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, a growing number of women are opting to provide their infants with this nutrient-rich “liquid gold.” While it’s understood that various substances can pass through breast milk, there are still many uncertainties, particularly concerning marijuana use. New mothers who used cannabis before giving birth or are considering it post-delivery might be curious: Is it safe to consume marijuana while breastfeeding?
What Do Experts Recommend?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there is not enough evidence to definitively state whether smoking marijuana while breastfeeding is safe. To err on the side of caution, the CDC advises against using marijuana or any cannabidiol (CBD) products during breastfeeding. Similarly, the American Academy of Pediatrics urges breastfeeding mothers to avoid cannabis due to the potential unknown risks. However, some recent research indicates that early-preterm infants exposed to THC through breast milk experienced no immediate adverse health effects.
Dr. Emily Tanner, a pediatrician at a leading children’s hospital, along with a research team, reviewed the medical histories of over 750 early-preterm babies. They compared health outcomes of infants breastfed by THC-positive mothers with those from THC-negative mothers. Their findings revealed no significant short-term health differences between the two groups when they were discharged from the hospital. However, it’s worth noting that this study did not cover full-term infants or assess long-term effects of THC exposure.
While the official stance is cautious, there are circumstances where the known benefits of marijuana might outweigh the risks associated with its unknown effects. Medical marijuana is often prescribed for various conditions, including:
- Muscle spasms due to multiple sclerosis
- Nausea caused by cancer treatments
- Poor appetite and weight loss from chronic illnesses like HIV
- Seizure disorders
- Crohn’s disease
Is Pumping and Dumping Effective?
Pumping and dumping is a common method mothers use after drinking alcohol to prevent their babies from consuming milk with high alcohol levels. Unfortunately, this approach is not effective for marijuana use. A study published in the journal Pediatrics found THC was detectable in 34 out of 54 breast milk samples for up to six days following the last reported use. This means mothers would have to pump and discard their milk for nearly a week to ensure it’s free of THC—an exhausting process.
Navigating Decisions on Cannabis Use While Breastfeeding
In a thought-provoking article on Parents.com, a writer under the pseudonym “Lila” shared her experience using marijuana to cope with severe postpartum PTSD. This condition affects approximately 9% of women. Faced with the choice between THC and prescription medications, Lila opted for cannabis, citing concerns about side effects and dependency. She felt that marijuana was a lifeline for her mental health, allowing her to be a better mother.
As someone who has dealt with postpartum anxiety, I understand her perspective. Parenting often leads us to prioritize our children’s needs over our own well-being. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that marijuana, like any substance, carries risks of impairment. Our primary goal as parents is to be in the best possible shape to care for our children. If you’re considering cannabis while nursing, it’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider before making a decision.
For further reading on related topics, check out this post from an IBCLC.
Summary
When it comes to smoking marijuana while breastfeeding, the consensus among health professionals leans towards caution due to the unknown effects of THC on infants. While some studies suggest no immediate risks for early-preterm babies, the long-term implications remain unclear. As mothers navigate their choices, it’s vital to consider both their health and the potential impacts on their children. Consulting with a medical professional can guide these decisions effectively.
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