Marijuana and Breastfeeding

Ganja. Weed. Pot. Whatever you call it, marijuana is the most commonly used drug in the U.S.

Many people would like to see it legalized, and many areas of the country prosecute users at a “lowest priority” level. 

If you like it, would it be so wrong for you to have some if you are breastfeeding?  Read on and decide for yourself.

PROS

CONS

1. It’s illegal. Getting caught with it could mean fines and a police record which could prevent you from providing the very best for your baby.

2. It rapidly moves into the brain and it concentrates in breast milk. Regular, heavy users have levels 8 times higher in their breast milk than in their blood. Babies exposed through breast milk will test positive in urine screens for two to three weeks.

3. Breastfeeding infants are exposed to toxic chemicals from marijuana at a time of rapid growth and development, especially of the brain and nervous system. Animal studies have shown that structural changes occur in the brain cells of newborn animals exposed to marijuana through their mother's milk causing serious and long lasting effects.

4. Babies exposed through breast milk often exhibit signs of sedation, weakness and poor feeding patterns.

5. It decreases hormones needed to produce milk, often resulting in decreased milk production.

6. It causes reality distortion, which may make it hard to cope with an emergency situation. This could be very dangerous for you and your baby. When the high wears off it is usually followed by a deep sleep, in which you may be unresponsive to your baby's needs.

7. Use by breastfeeding mothers is not recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Click here for some interesting facts about marijuana.