CBD in pregnancy and lactation: precautions and health implications
Is CBD safe during pregnancy and lactation? I would like to bring you a scientific perspective, since there is really little content of this on the Internet. If you look closely, in general it is not recommended to use medicines, or chemical products, nor sudden changes in the diet and a long etc.
But do you know why this is?
Current Research on CBD and Pregnancy
The use of CBD products has experienced rapid growth around the world, but what about its use during pregnancy and lactation? While there is evidence to support the benefits of CBD for certain health conditions, its safety during these critical periods remains uncertain. Join us as we investigate the safety of CBD during pregnancy and lactation from a scientific perspective.
Effects of CBD on fetal development
Research on the effects of CBD on fetal development is limited. Some animal studies have shown that cannabinoid use during pregnancy may affect fetal brain growth and development. However, these studies often involve high doses of cannabinoids, and more human research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD in pregnancy.
Human studies and limitations
Human studies investigating the effects of CBD in pregnancy are few and have significant limitations. Most research has focused on cannabis use in general, rather than specifically isolate CBD. Since cannabis contains THC, a psychoactive compound, it is difficult to determine whether the effects observed in these studies are attributable to CBD, THC, or other compounds in cannabis.
In addition, many human studies on cannabis and pregnancy are based on self-diagnosis reports, which can lead to bias in the results. Therefore, more controlled and targeted research on CBD is needed to fully understand its impact on pregnancy.
In general, scientific research is based on consumption and not so much on the effect of CBD cosmetics and the impact .
CBD and breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a crucial moment in the life of a newborn. In addition to providing food, breast milk protects the baby from diseases and promotes its growth, also strengthening the emotional bond between mother and child.
Breast milk production is controlled by the endocrine system, which consists of glands and organs that regulate bodily functions. During pregnancy and the first days postpartum, the body produces colostrum, a milk with a high concentration of immune cells and antibodies, which provides the baby with the necessary nutrients for a healthy start.
Subsequently, normal breast milk is produced, which contains a greater amount of fat, lactose, essential vitamins and proteins. During the first few months, the hormone prolactin stimulates milk production. Over time, the body gets used to this daily demand and milk production becomes more mechanical. The quality of breast milk will depend on the foods, drinks and substances that the mother ingests, so it is important to follow a healthy and balanced diet.
It is essential to take into account that certain substances, such as alcohol and some medicines, can seriously affect the quality of milk and harm the baby, so it is important to consult a health professional before consuming them while breastfeeding.
Transfer of CBD through breast milk
There is evidence that cannabinoids, including CBD, can be transferred into breast milk (3). Although the amount of CBD that reaches the baby through breast milk may be small, the long-term effects on the neurodevelopment and health of the baby are not clear. Since the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in brain development, any exposure to cannabinoids during this critical time could have implications for the health and development of the baby.
It is important to note that current information on CBD use while breastfeeding is limited, and there are as yet no definitive scientific studies indicating the effects of CBD on breast milk and newborns.
A 2018 study published in the journal Pediatric Research found that THC, another compound from the cannabis plant, can be detected in breast milk for up to six days after consumption. Additionally, the study noted that THC may affect brain development in infants.
Although there are no studies that have specifically investigated the effects of CBD on breast milk, a 2020 article published in the journal Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research concluded that "more research is needed to determine if CBD is safe for lactating mothers and their babies." ".
Effects of CBD on infants
Currently, there are no studies directly investigating the effects of CBD on infants exposed through breast milk. However, some animal studies have shown that cannabinoids can affect brain development, cognitive function, and behavior in offspring (5). More human research is needed to assess the potential risks of CBD in infants exposed through breast milk.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, " nursing mothers should avoid the use of cannabis products, including CBD, due to a lack of information on the long-term effects of cannabidiol on nursing infants." The organization also points out that cannabinoids, including CBD, can be transferred to breast milk, which could affect the development and health of the baby.
What do the studies say about CBD so far?
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, a study 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.
In addition to the aforementioned study, there are other investigations that address the safety of consuming CBD oil while breastfeeding. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology in 2018 concluded that although CBD does not appear to have adverse effects on the health of the mother or child, additional studies are needed to confirm its safety during lactation.
Another study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2019 , found that CBD can affect liver function and increase the risk of liver damage in certain patients. Although the study did not specifically focus on lactating women, it does suggest that CBD use may have unknown risks to overall health.
Conclusion
As we have indicated before, most of what the mother consumes is transferred to 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 there are no conclusive studies on the safety of consuming CBD oil while breastfeeding, available studies suggest that CBD may be transferred from mother to child through breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, it is important to speak with your doctor before using any CBD-containing products to ensure there are no health risks to your child.
More sources :
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2021). Marijuana and Breastfeeding. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/breastfeeding/Pages/Marijuana-and-Breastfeeding.aspx
Related topics:
Marijuana use during lactation, CBD and risks to the health of the infant, CBD and psychotropic effects, CBD and withdrawal symptoms in the infant, CBD and pain in lactation, Benefits of CBD in lactation, CBD and anxiety in lactation
