Marijuana (cannabis) isn’t recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This is because it may lead to pregnancy complications and might affect your baby’s growth and brain development. Right now, we don’t know if there are safe amounts or types of marijuana or cannabis during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so we recommend avoiding it completely. This includes smoking, vaping, eating or drinking products containing marijuana or cannabis, or using skincare products like lotions and oils that contain marijuana or cannabis. If you use medical cannabis, talk to your medical provider about trying other treatments while you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
THC, the active ingredient in marijuana and cannabis that gives you a “high,” travels from you to your baby during pregnancy and while you’re breastfeeding.
During pregnancy, THC passes through the placenta (the organ that gives your baby nutrients and oxygen), and while breastfeeding, it travels to your baby through your breast milk. When your baby receives THC through the placenta or breast milk, it stays in their body for a long time. This is why it may affect if they’re born early, their growth, and their brain development.
These small effects can turn into long-term effects as your baby grows. Research is still being done about babies who are exposed to THC, but some research shows that it can make it more difficult for kids to focus and succeed in school as they get older.
It takes time for THC to leave your body. There is a misconception that you can pump enough to get rid of any breast milk that is contaminated with THC. Some people call this “pumping and dumping”. This isn’t true. The amount of THC in your breast milk only decreases over time when you stop using marijuana or cannabis. However, you may need to pump your milk and throw it away if your breasts feel uncomfortable and it’s too soon to safely breastfeed your baby. Talk to a doctor or contact MotherToBaby Utah if you have questions about how long you should wait to breastfeed after using marijuana or cannabis.
Resources
Do you have questions about marijuana or cannabis use during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or when planning a pregnancy? Ask MotherToBaby Utah. MothertoBaby Utah provides free, confidential, and accurate information to medical providers and pregnant and breastfeeding people.
More marijuana and cannabis resources:
Marijuana fact sheet- MotherToBaby
University of Utah Marijuana Use During Pregnancy Study
Cannabis use during pregnancy and breastfeeding- Utah Center for Medical Cannabis
What You Need to Know About Marijuana Use and Pregnancy- CDC
Marijuana and Breastfeeding- CDC
Baby Your Baby- Risks of Smoking and Marijuana Use During Pregnancy