Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike its close relative, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not intoxicating and does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana. For breastfeeding parents, the primary concern is whether this substance transfers into their milk and what effect it might have on the nursing infant. This question is highly relevant given CBD’s increasing accessibility and its use for issues like pain, anxiety, and sleep.
The Science of Cannabinoid Transfer
The direct answer to whether CBD gets into breast milk is yes, it does transfer from the parent’s bloodstream into the milk supply. This transfer is largely governed by the compound’s chemical structure, specifically its high lipophilicity, meaning it is fat-soluble. Breast milk naturally contains high levels of fat, which acts as a reservoir for lipophilic compounds like CBD.
Once CBD enters the mother’s bloodstream, it readily passes into the fatty components of the mammary gland and concentrates in the breast milk. Studies have detected CBD in the milk of mothers who use cannabis products. The concentration in breast milk can be several times higher than the concentration found in the mother’s blood plasma.
This mechanism of transfer is also seen with other cannabinoids, including THC. The levels of CBD found in the milk depend on factors such as the parent’s dosage, frequency of use, and metabolism. Because the transfer is tied to the fat content, CBD can be stored in the body’s fat tissues and released slowly over time, potentially leading to prolonged infant exposure.
Potential Effects on the Nursing Infant
Despite the established transfer of CBD into breast milk, the long-term effects on a developing infant remain largely unknown due to a lack of comprehensive research. Scientists are concerned about CBD’s interaction with the baby’s endocannabinoid system, which is still maturing. This system plays a role in regulating numerous biological processes, including brain development, sleep cycles, and appetite regulation.
Introducing an external cannabinoid like CBD during this formative period could potentially interfere with the natural signaling pathways of the infant’s developing nervous system. Potential short-term concerns observed with general cannabinoid exposure include increased sedation, lethargy, and a reduction in the infant’s ability to feed well. These issues are worrisome in newborns, where adequate feeding and alertness are important for healthy growth.
Furthermore, an infant’s ability to metabolize and clear CBD from their system is immature compared to an adult’s. Newborns and young infants have less developed liver enzyme systems, meaning any CBD they ingest through breast milk is likely to stay in their bodies longer. This prolonged exposure time increases the potential for the compound to exert an effect on developing organs and neurological structures. The lack of standardized research on dosage and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes highlights the risk of unknown harm to the nursing child.
Regulatory Status and Medical Advice
Major health and regulatory bodies have issued warnings against the use of CBD and other cannabis products during lactation. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against the use of CBD in any form while breastfeeding, citing the lack of safety data and the potential for harm to the infant. The FDA has only approved one prescription CBD product, Epidiolex, for specific seizure disorders, and no other CBD products have been formally vetted for safety or efficacy.
A major concern is that many commercially available CBD products are not regulated and may contain undisclosed contaminants, including:
- Heavy metals
- Pesticides
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Higher levels of THC than advertised
This lack of standardization means that a parent using CBD cannot be certain about the exact substance or dosage they are transferring to their baby. Organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) align with this cautious approach, recommending that breastfeeding parents avoid using cannabis-derived products, including CBD.
The consensus among medical professionals is rooted in the precautionary principle, given the irreversible nature of early brain development and the potential for long-term adverse effects. Healthcare providers recommend that any parent considering CBD use while breastfeeding should consult with their physician or lactation specialist first. Guidance emphasizes that because the safety profile of CBD exposure via breast milk is not established, the safest choice for the infant is to abstain from using these products entirely.