Is CBD Safe During Pregnancy?

Although nobody talks about CBD openly, cannabidiol products are a topic in the world of motherhood. With very limited research available on what effects of cannabis has on a baby in utero, scientists warn against its use by soon-to-be-moms.

Cannabidiol seems to be all the rage recently as a treatment for a wide range of ailments, including anxiety and pain. Meanwhile, the growing acceptance and validity of cannabis in many states let loose a series of CBD-based products on the market including on websites like natureandbloom.

Today you can find CBD-infused beverages, candies, gums, and skincare products at every corner, with CBD connoisseurs hyping their healing powers. 

The thing is, none of the products listed above have been accepted by the FDA or regulated in terms of formulation, delivery, and dosage. And though it comes from the cannabis plant, cannabidiol does not seem to be addictive nor safe for breastfeeding and pregnant women. 

What the Studies Show About CBD Use During Pregnancy

School of Medicine experts have produced some of the first solid studies on what marijuana use can do to a developing baby during pregnancy. 

Their study concluded that cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, can lead to brain and facial birth defects when used in the first trimester of pregnancy. They initially determined that in mice models, which are very accurate models of early human pregnancy. 

They found that these defects occurred after a one-time exposure to cannabinoids. Given the way cannabinoids interact with the human body on a basic cellular level, THC or CBD exposure can double the likelihood of these developmental changes when combined with alcohol. 

While this happens to be the first study to show that cannabinoids directly cause abnormal development, other research revealed associations between marijuana use during baby development and preterm birth and low birth weight, together with issues in behavioral control and cognitive abilities. 

A Pediatrician’s Opinion

Based on the previous research on marijuana use in pregnancy, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and FDA advises mothers not to use marijuana or any of its products, including CBD, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. 

While most medical professionals rely on cite studies and these recommendations when offering their advice to new mothers, medics also use the knowledge they’ve gained from years of practice. 

Medical professionals are still learning how long marijuana stays in the breast milk, yet research has found THC to remain in breast milk for up to six days after a mother uses a product.  

Can CBD Help Address Common Motherhood Struggles?

While the use of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, is prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding, CBD can be an incredibly useful tool in your parenting toolbox. 

Beyond pain and inflammation benefits, cannabidiol remains a viable solution when struggling with sleep conditions and anxiety during motherhood.

Mothers tackle way too many things as multi-faced women and mothers, so CBD can help bring serenity to the many overwhelming moments. 

Many mothers appreciate the benefits of cbd like anxiety relief which has helped them become more aware and balanced individuals. They often struggle with a short temper while responding to difficult discussions and stressful situations (toddler tantrums or bath times), and CBD helped them to react more peacefully and not get anxious. 

Some have to battle restless nights, particularly as coming back to their usual routines when infants begin to sleep on their own. For many, cannabidiol came as a healthier alternative to most sleeping medications, which helped them improve both sleep duration and quality. 

Having soothing nights and less anxious days helped many mothers tackle toddler tantrums with a little somewhat calmer. 

What are Mothers Using CBD for?

With legalization of medical marijuana in many states, it comes as no surprise that mothers are interested in it and the benefits of its more accessible cousin, CBD oil. And they have serious reasons to do so. According to OrganicCBDNugs.com, CBD can help women achieve homeostasis. You’re probably familiar with the term, especially when discussing that subtle internal balance women are trying to achieve during motherhood.

How does it work?

• Our bodies are known to naturally generate cannabinoids even while breastfeeding. Believe it or not, that’s what helps cannabidiol work so efficiently in our organism. We are able to produce our own “endo” (endogenous) cannabinoids which are exhausted during stressful times (like motherhood). Cannabidiol includes phytocannabinoids and is efficient as it mimics our endocannabinoids.
• Studies have shown that when we are ingesting CBD consistently, it can help us improve a powerful system of receptors in our organism accountable for balance and regulation. Because female biochemistry is by nature cyclical – and often imbalanced – CBD’s regulating properties can be quite beneficial for women.
• Given everyone’s body and wellness goals are different, your cannabidiol routine as a mother should indicate that. For that reason, we advise your medical professional to help you guide you through consultations and ongoing check-ins.

Are There Any Safe CBD Products During Pregnancy or Breastfeeding?

Previously mentioned research and FDA verdicts oppose this decision. However, there are several CBD products that can deliver powerful relief to a pregnant and nursing mom.

When applied to the skin, cannabidiol topicals do not enter the bloodstream, but they can still act as potent pain relief to joints and sore muscles during breastfeeding or pregnancy. The thing is we are battling more puzzles than answers when discussing CBD.

What to consider when purchasing CBD products?

• Pay Attention to the THC Dosage – While cannabidiol should contain less than 0.3% THC, products with “zero THC” are really contradictory since those all-essential cannabinoids need a small amount of THC for your organism to read and act to it. Make sure you find a trustworthy supplier or ask your medical advisor before purchasing.
• CBD Will Take Time to Learn – for most of you, it may take about one week to tell if your daily dosage is right. To make sure you’re doing it right, discuss with your medical advisor to figure out a custom dosage plan and to help you achieve your goals.