Can I Use CBD When I'm Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
Many women worldwide benefit from the positive effects of CBD, but are they the same when it comes to pregnancy and breastfeeding? Expectant mothers have many concerns about the use of CBD.
Up to 80% of women experience the “baby blues”, a mild form of depression following childbirth. And, up to 20% of women experience postpartum depression, according to PostpartumDepression.org.
Other concerns include anxiety, chronic pain, discomfort, and insomnia, associated with lack of sleep and hormonal shifts that occur naturally during pregnancy, and after childbirth. No wonder new mothers are turning to CBD. But should they?
What is CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a chemical compound from the plant Cannabid Sativa. It is a naturally occurring substance that is used in products such as oils and foods to provide a feeling of relaxation and calm.
CBD has been reported as an active ingredient in various therapeutic products characterized by anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antipsychotic, anticonvulsant, and antidepressant properties.
Has FDA Approved The Use of CBD Products During Pregnancy and While Breastfeeding?
The FDA strongly discourages cannabidiol (CBD) and marijuana in any form during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as there is insufficient research to support its safety.
According to the FDA, many potential risks could arise if pregnant or breastfeeding women use CBD, including fetal brain development, premature birth, stillbirth, and long-term behavioral problems.
There is a consensus that cannabis use during pregnancy or breastfeeding could be dangerous, and not worth the risk without further research. There is research showing that it is passed into breast milk, and can affect the baby's development.
Although there is no comprehensive research on the effects of CBD on the developing fetus, pregnant woman, or breastfed baby, the FDA continues to collect and study data on the potential adverse effects of CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Are There Any Effects of Using CBD During Pregnancy and While Breastfeeding?
When a woman becomes pregnant, many things she comes in contact with can affect her fetus, and substances in a woman's body can be passed on to the baby during breastfeeding.
Here are some likely effects (both positive and negative) if CBD is taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Negative Effects Of CBD
The potential negative effects of using CBD during pregnancy or breastfeeding include
1) Possible long-lasting adverse effects. The lack of clinical data makes it difficult for expectant mothers to decide if CBD use may be harming the baby. This is the main reason why so many doctors worldwide are trying to persuade expectant mothers to restrain from using CBD. This can bring some negative results that can seriously affect a child's overall well-being.
2) Difficulties in fetus development. Some studies have shown no increased risk of adverse outcomes for the fetus due to cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. At the same time, these data are not clear enough to sustain such position.
Most cannabinoids contain active substances that can cross the placenta, and "attack" the fetus. The point is that it could block or reduce the development of some of the vital functions that normal children have. In addition, the mother could be at risk of preterm birth if CBD products are used.
Benefits of CBD
The potential benefits of CBD during pregnancy or breastfeeding include:
1) Relieve morning sickness. Although CBD intake can have some side effects, it can combat unpleasant symptoms during pregnancy, like morning sickness, and the nausea and vomiting that can come with it. Nevertheless, morning sickness can be a sign that the mother is healthy.
CBD probably relieves nausea and early morning sickness. It can even alleviate the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), which includes extreme vomiting.
2) Relief from pain. Getting rid of chronic pain is one of the most popular reasons why pregnant women resort to CBD. CBD is believed to be helpful for treating inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
3) Relieve anxiety and depression. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers often suffer from insomnia and increased stress. CBD is known for its stress-reducing properties.
Conclusion
There has been little research, and not enough information on CBD. To date, there are no convincing studies on the safety of CBD during pregnancy and while breastfeeding, so it is not recommended until further studies are completed.
You should also talk to your doctor before trying any new medication or treatment, and especially if you are pregnant.
Try different alternatives like yoga and a healthy diet, so you don't have to rely on CBD during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
About CBD Pillow
After your bundle of joy has arrived, and you’ve finished breastfeeding and find that you’re having trouble sleeping, you might want to consider sleeping on the CBD Pillow. It releases microdoses of CBD throughout the night, so you sleep more soundly and deeply through the night. You’ll likely find that you wake up refreshed and rejuvenated, which is just what you need, especially when your new addition to your family becomes an energetic toddler!