Can I Take CBD While Breastfeeding?

Life is full of questions as a new mum. Is this okay, should I do this, what do I do about that? If you’re anything like me, who is 4 months into motherhood, then you have turned to Google many times for help with your new mum questions (usually in the middle of the night between random online purchases… let’s be honest)

One question you might have found yourself searching could be “Can I take CBD while breastfeeding?” As a mum who is exclusively breastfeeding her little lady, I will share some info on CBD and nursing.

Why would CBD interest me as a new breastfeeding mum?

CBD may help with many of your postnatal issues.

For me, my postnatal issues have been heart fluttering anxiety, inflammation due to birth, mood swings and sleep issues (Sometimes I struggle to get back to sleep after a feed!)

CBD may also help with postnatal depression as it may help your body to use serotonin. Postnatal depression affects 1 in 10 women, however, this figure could be much higher. We’ve got a whole post on CBD for postnatal depression, which you can read here.

When you are a new mum your body seems to be in the constant “fight or flight” mode because of high levels of stress hormones. Even when it is time for bed or after a night feed, I struggle to switch off as every noise and turn alerts me. Apparently, breastfeeding mothers never go into full deep sleep, this is deeply embedded in our instincts. But, also, it’s quite annoying!

Could I take CBD while breastfeeding?

We have to establish here the fact that THC (the main psychoactive constituent of cannabis) is harmful in anyway possible whether you are pregnant, nursing or simply a woman who is neither pregnant nor lactating, regardless of age; as proven by research. It stays in the breast milk for a longer period of time even as compared to alcohol. See published research here

We need to know that THC effects babies. On animal-based trials, It showed adverse effects on development of cannabis-exposed animals. Babies can be affected by THC both when in the womb and through breastfeeding. Babies who are exposed to THC are thought to experience issues in brain development resulting in hyperactivity and poor cognitive function.

It is suggested not to take CBD while nursing because CBD levels are also detected in breast milk just like THC. However, currently, there is not enough evidence to suggest that it is or isn’t safe to take CBD while breastfeeding due to lack of research on CBD.

There is need for more studies and more trials in terms of CBD use to prove its effectiveness and safety during nursing. References research available here.

It is also important to tell you that FDA has prohibited the use of CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding, you can read about that here

But establishing that, we must tell you Our Remedy CBD does not contain THC. Our Remedy is zero THC.

Is it worth the risk?

If you are in two minds, then have a chat to your doctor. Currently, there isn’t enough info as to whether it even impacts your breast milk but its levels are detected in the milk. We do know that CBD is prescribed to children with epilepsy and other conditions. At the end of the day, you have to do what works for you and what you feel is right.

What other alternative remedies could help me?

If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, sleep issues or pain and are looking for an alternative remedy, then you might consider exercises, acupuncture, lavender, chamomile tea, a weighted blanket, and a decent wind down routine (just like you’d have for your little person!) There are some great ideas here

Chances are you’ll be back having periods after you have finished breastfeeding. CBD may help to reduce those period pains that you have managed to get away with while you have been pregnant and nursing. It may also help with mood swings and PMS symptoms. Making your return to periods a little more manageable.

Ask the Doctor – Your questions, answered!

Q: Could a c-section leave sex feeling tight and painful or is it more likely to be breastfeeding?

A: C section doesn’t affect your sex life at all; hormones do.  Breastfeeding affects hormones. After childbirth and during breastfeeding, your hormones fluctuate and your libido/ sexual desire may decrease. It is not permanent and nothing to be worried about. It happens in the postpartum period and will eventually return to normal as your baby starts to eat more solid food.

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