CBD & New Moms: Is CBD Safe When Breastfeeding?

For all of you who've just welcomed a new member into your family, congratulations! The next few months will be full of fun and exciting experiences as you nurture your bundle of joy.

But, caring for a baby also brings a lot of stress. In addition to the normal stressors new parents have, breastfeeding moms face a few extra challenges when it comes to their health. We know this comes as no surprise. That's why we receive so many questions from new parents about CBD!

You've heard that CBD can help with relaxation and sleep. In the stressed-out and sleep-deprived state that is parenthood, CBD may indeed support your mood and mental health.

The question is: Is CBD safe to take while nursing? Let's take a look and put this baby to bed once and for all.

FYI: This is the second in our two-part series on CBD and safety for pregnant and nursing women. Soon-to-be moms — be sure to check outIs CBD Safe For Pregnant Women? for the lowdown on CBD use while pregnant.

CBD & Nursing

Parenthood is a wonderful but stressful time. You may be looking for effective ways to ease some of that stress and help you through those long nights. Perhaps CBD is on that shortlist?

Well, not to burst your bubble, but let's talk about why you may want to wait before reaching for that CBD oil.

It’s well known that what mamma consumes, baby consumes — to some degree. So, many of the medications, supplements, etc. you take could be passed onto your child via your breast milk. So how does CBD stack up?

The truth is, there hasn't been much research into how much CBD can transfer through breastfeeding, nor is there much info on the effects of CBD on newborns.

That's why the FDA urges caution and advises that nursing women hold off on trying any CBD-containing products.

FDA Guidelines For Nursing Women

It's important to note that the FDA has not approved and does not regulate OTC CBD products, but they do have an advisory for women who are nursing. The FDA strongly recommends that nursing women avoid products that contain either CBD, THC, or other cannabinoids.(1)

Similarly, the FDA also suggests that nursing women speak with their medical team before trying any new supplements, vitamins, herbs, and medicines.

CBD Is Generally A No-Go For These Folks

CBD is considered safe for most adults. But there are a few categories of folks who should avoid CBD or check with their doctor before trying it:

• Pregnant or nursing women
• Minors
• People with pre-existing health conditions
• People currently taking medications

As a nursing mom, you are squarely in that first swath of peeps — and might also be in other groups as well. By consulting with your doctor on the latest CBD health and safety information, you can get the specific info you need and a care plan tailored to your personal health profile and needs.

Post-Nursing Parenthood: Is CBD An Option Now?

The good news is you won't be nursing forever! So, CBD can still be an option after you've weaned your child off of breastfeeding.

And many parents swear by CBD. It can help with sleep and relaxation — which is a huge boost when you're in the trenches of “parental bliss”!

Why New Parents Are Using CBD

CBD has a lot going for it. Most notably, research indicates that CBD has the potential to do things like:(2)

• Alleviate stress
• Ease anxiety
• Improve sleep quality
• Relieve pain

And, according to anecdotal reports from parents, it appears that CBD might help with postpartum blues, hormonal disruption, and other common wellness issues that may arise after giving birth.

CBD is also non-intoxicating, so it won't make you feel “high” like THC. You can take it without worrying about it impacting your judgment or ability to function at home and work. This is great news for new parents who’re feeling a little wacky from lack of rest and the stress that comes with creating and raising a human being. (It’s not easy!)

CBD Tips For New Moms

Being a new mom means your attention is probably focused on your little one most of the time. That's why we've put together a few simple and easy tips on how to incorporate CBD into your day (again, when you’re no longer in that breastfeeding stage).

Simplify Life With CBD Softgels

One of the easiest ways to take CBD is a softgel. CBD softgels look like little pills and come with CBD oil encased in the capsule.

The softgels are easy to swallow, don't have any taste or smell, and can be taken at any time. You can add it to a morning supplement routine or just take it as needed throughout the day. They’re great for on-the-go moms.

Go For CBD Gummies

Like CBD softgels, CBD gummies are quick and easy to take. Plus, with their cheery colors, fruity flavors, and satisfying chewiness — they’re pretty darn fun, too! CBD gummies are perfect for the parental who wants to treat her inner child for taking such awesome care of her actual child.

Try A Tincture

CBD tinctures are a great choice for quick dosing anywhere, anytime. CBD tinctures are taken sublingually, which means they're fast-acting when you need relief like, now. CBD drops can also be mixed into foods and drinks, which may make them extremely versatile and flexible for mamas who want options.

Counting Sheep With CBD

For those struggling with sleep issues, we got you covered. Check out Pure Craft’s Nano CBD Water Soluble + Melatonin. This special blend may be a great way to calm your body and mind in the evenings. And catch some much needed Zzzs.

CBD & New Moms: Key Takeaways

It's not surprising that parents are looking to CBD for relief. It's natural, non-intoxicating, and has a lot of great benefits to boot. And it's generally well tolerated by most adults.

However, CBD is not recommended for women who are currently nursing.

But, if you’re done breastfeeding — and you’ve checked in with your doctor — consider giving CBD a try if you struggle with sleep, stress, anxiety, or just need something to help take the edge off those first few years of parenthood.

CBD softgels are a simple CBD solution for the busy parent on the go. And we love CBD water solubles infused with melatonin for extra sleep support.

READY TO TRY CBD? VIEW ALL PRODUCTS

References

1. (2019). What You Should Know About Using Cannabis, Including CBD, When Pregnant or Breastfeeding. U.S. Food & Drug Administration.
2. Kubala, J. (2018). 7 Benefits and Uses of CBD Oil (Plus Side Effects). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits