Edibles, Cannabis Oil, and Pregnancy: What Expectant and Breastfeeding Parents Need to Know
Exploring the evidence and expert guidance on cannabis and CBD product use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
With growing legalization and use of cannabis products like edibles, cannabis oils, and cannabidiol (CBD), expecting and new parents have important questions about their safety. This article synthesizes expert recommendations and scientific evidence to help you make informed choices for your health and your baby’s well-being.
Should You Use Edibles or Cannabis Oils When Pregnant or Breastfeeding?
Major medical authorities strongly advise against the use of cannabis in any form—including edibles and oils—during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This recommendation is based on both established and emerging research about the impact on a baby’s development and the limited safety data for CBD products.
- Edibles and oils are not safer alternatives: Consuming cannabis through food, oils, tinctures, or topical creams still exposes you and your baby to active compounds like THC, as well as unknown ingredients or contaminants due to lax regulation of these products.
“No matter how you use or ingest cannabis, the THC it contains will still be able to cross the placental barrier, and your baby will be exposed to its effects.” - CBD products also lack established safety profiles: CBD crosses the placenta, and its impact on fetal and infant development remains largely unknown.
- THC and other cannabinoids can be present in breastmilk: This means that if you use these products while breastfeeding, your baby can be exposed to these substances.
How Cannabis Products Can Affect Your Baby
There are several reasons experts recommend avoiding cannabis and its derivatives while pregnant or breastfeeding:
- THC crosses the placenta and can impact the development of your baby’s brain and body.
- CBD also crosses the placental barrier, but there is not enough research to confirm its safety for your developing baby.
- Cannabis exposure is linked to:
- Reduced birth weight
- Premature birth
- Stillbirth
- Slower fetal growth
- Potential behavioral and cognitive problems later in childhood
- Secondhand cannabis smoke exposure can be harmful to both the pregnant parent and the unborn baby.
Are Edibles and Cannabis Oils Safer Than Smoking?
You may wonder if switching from smoking to edible or oil forms of cannabis makes it safer. Medical professionals and scientists currently stress that all forms of cannabis carry potential risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding, regardless of how they are consumed.
- Edibles and oils still deliver active compounds, especially THC, into the bloodstream and potentially to the developing baby.
- The amounts and potency in edibles and oils can vary widely due to inconsistent regulation, raising the risk of unintentional overdose or exposure to contaminants.
- Even applying cannabis-based creams or lotions results in some absorption of active ingredients, which can reach the baby in utero or through breastmilk.
Comparing Cannabis Delivery Methods During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
| Delivery Method | Route | Transmission to Fetus/Baby | Known or Suspected Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smoking | Inhalation | Yes (through bloodstream, placenta, breastmilk) | Lung problems, fetal growth restriction, toxic smoke exposure |
| Edibles | Oral | Yes (active ingredients circulate) | Lower birth weight, potential contaminants, delayed peak effect |
| Oils/Tinctures | Oral/Topical | Yes (active ingredients absorbed, may reach fetus/infant) | Lack of research, potency uncertainty, contaminants |
| Vaping | Inhalation | Yes (active compounds in blood, secondhand exposure) | Unknown chemicals, fetal effects, respiratory irritants |
| Topical Creams | Transdermal | Potentially, via absorption | Limited safety data, unregulated products |
What Do Medical Experts and Major Organizations Recommend?
Multiple international health organizations advise avoiding all forms of cannabis, including edibles and cannabis oils, while pregnant or breastfeeding:
- The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): Discourages use of marijuana in any form during pregnancy and lactation due to the potential risks to fetal and infant health.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics: Recommends that breastfeeding parents abstain from cannabis use because of potential transfer of cannabinoids via breastmilk.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): States there is no safe amount of cannabis during pregnancy, as THC can interfere with brain development and crosses the placenta.
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Warns that CBD products are not regulated for safety or consistency, and their effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unstudied.
Common Questions About Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Isn’t cannabis or CBD natural—doesn’t that make it safe?
Even though cannabis and CBD are plant-derived, this does not mean they are harmless, especially for fetuses and newborns. Many natural substances are unsafe during pregnancy, and both THC and CBD can affect developing brain chemistry and growth.
Can I use edibles or cannabis for morning sickness?
Many pregnant people use cannabis to try to manage nausea or vomiting (morning sickness), but research doesn’t support its safety or effectiveness for this use during pregnancy. Other proven, doctor-recommended treatments are considered safer.
What about using cannabis oil or CBD to relieve anxiety or sleep problems during pregnancy?
The lack of evidence for safety, possible contamination, and unknown effects on fetal or infant development mean these are not recommended as remedies during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Is occasional use (once or twice during pregnancy) risky?
There is no data proving that any frequency of cannabis use is safe for the mother or unborn baby, and health organizations recommend abstaining completely during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Could secondhand cannabis smoke harm my baby?
Yes. Like tobacco smoke, secondhand cannabis smoke contains toxic and potentially cancer-causing chemicals. THC from secondhand smoke can also be absorbed and reach your developing baby.
Is medical marijuana any different?
Even medical-grade marijuana is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding by major health organizations. The active compounds, especially THC, present risks regardless of the intended use or form.
What If I Already Used Cannabis Early in Pregnancy?
If you’ve used cannabis before knowing you were pregnant, do not panic. The best step is to discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
- Many people use cannabis before discovering their pregnancy; stopping as early as possible reduces potential risks.
- Your healthcare provider can help monitor your pregnancy and advise on any special screenings or care that may be needed.
Why Is Cannabis Use Riskier For Pregnant People Than Adults Who Aren’t Pregnant?
The fetus is uniquely vulnerable to cannabis effects. THC and CBD can target brain receptors involved in development. These compounds can disrupt critical growth processes that do not occur in adults.
- The brain and nervous system of an unborn baby are rapidly developing and are particularly sensitive to outside influences, including drugs and chemicals.
- The placenta and breastmilk do not fully protect your baby from exposure to these substances.
What About CBD-Only Products?
CBD (cannabidiol) products are touted as non-psychoactive and relaxing, but their safety profile during pregnancy and breastfeeding remains entirely unproven.
- Studies confirm that CBD reaches the fetus via the placenta, but its long-term effects are unknown.
- Current CBD products vary dramatically in purity and may contain THC or other unlisted ingredients.
- Experts therefore recommend that pregnant or breastfeeding people avoid all CBD products, regardless of claims of non-psychoactivity or safety.
Safer Alternatives for Pregnancy and Postpartum Symptoms
Instead of self-medicating with cannabis or CBD for symptoms like nausea, pain, anxiety, or insomnia, consult with your healthcare provider. There are safer options for symptom relief with documented safety records.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Try diet modifications, ginger, vitamin B6, or prescription medications recommended by your doctor.
- Anxiety and Depression: Seek professional support and consider therapy, stress-reduction techniques, and other safer interventions before using any unapproved substances.
- Pain or Sleep Issues: Practice gentle exercise, good sleep hygiene, or doctor-approved remedies instead of turning to cannabis-based products.
Supporting a Partner or Loved One
If you live with or are close to someone who uses cannabis:
- Ask them to avoid smoking, vaping, or using cannabis products around you to eliminate secondhand exposure.
- If you’re struggling to stop using cannabis during pregnancy or breastfeeding, talk to your provider. They can provide resources and referrals to help you quit safely without stigma or judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are edibles or cannabis oils okay to use during pregnancy?
A: No. Edibles, cannabis oils, and any other form of cannabis are not considered safe during pregnancy, as the active compounds can cross the placenta and affect fetal development.
Q: Can I use CBD while breastfeeding?
A: CBD is not considered safe for breastfeeding parents, as it enters breastmilk and its effects on infants are unknown due to limited research.
Q: What should I do if I used cannabis before knowing I was pregnant?
A: Stop using as soon as you find out and inform your healthcare provider. Early discontinuation reduces possible risk to your baby.
Q: Is secondhand cannabis smoke harmful for an unborn baby?
A: Yes. Like tobacco smoke, cannabis smoke is harmful to unborn babies. THC and other harmful chemicals can be inhaled and reach the fetus.
Q: Are doctors judgmental about cannabis use in pregnancy?
A: The primary focus of medical professionals is protecting your and your baby’s health, not judging. Be honest with your provider so you can get the best advice and support for your situation.
Summary: The Bottom Line on Cannabis and Pregnancy
- Edibles, cannabis oils, CBD, and other cannabis products are not recommended while pregnant or breastfeeding due to potential risks.
- No amount or form of cannabis has been confirmed as safe during pregnancy or while nursing.
- Consult your healthcare provider for safe and effective symptom relief and support resources.
Prioritizing your health and your baby’s well-being involves careful consideration of all medication and substance use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ultimately, abstaining from cannabis and derivative products is the safest choice recommended by medical experts worldwide.
