References:

1. Government of Canada - Is cannabis safe during preconception, pregnancy and breastfeeding?
2. Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction - Clearing the Smoke on Cannabis: Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
3. About Kids Health - Medications, alcohol and cannabis in breastfeeding

Is cannabis safe to use when breastfeeding or chestfeeding?

• It is safest to avoid using cannabis when breastfeeding or chestfeeding

Why is it safest to avoid using cannabis when breastfeeding or chestfeeding?

• THC, which is found in cannabis, is known to effect the body and mind
• THC is what causes the “high” when cannabis is used
• THC can pass into breastmilk and then to baby
• Baby’s brain and body can be poorly affected by taking in THC in breastmilk
• Babies who take in THC can:
  • have a low birth weight
  • be sleepy
  • have little muscle
  • have trouble breastfeeding
• When child is older, they may have trouble
  • paying attention
  • remembering things
  • problem solving
  • with being hyperactive
  • with their behaviour

How long after using cannabis can THC pass to my baby?

• THC can still pass into breastmilk even 4-6 weeks after using cannabis
• “Pumping and dumping” is not a good method to use

Medical use of cannabis while breastfeeding or chestfeeding

• Methods other than cannabis should be used to treat medical concerns when breastfeeding
• Consult your health care provider to find out what it best for you

Suggestions for those who continue to use cannabis when breastfeeding or chestfeeding

• Reduce amount you are using as much as possible
• Choose to use cannabis with lower levels of THC
• Choose to take in cannabis using methods other than smoking

Further Your Learning:

1. LactMed® - Cannabis
2. Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction - Clearing the Smoke on Cannabis: Cannabis Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
3. Government of Canada - Is cannabis safe during preconception, pregnancy and breastfeeding?
4. About Kids Health - Medications, alcohol and cannabis in breastfeeding

Shareable Resources For Clients:

1. Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction - Is It OK to Use Cannabis During Pregnancy and while Breastfeeding?

Referral Sources:

1. Niagara Parents - Infant Feeding Appointment with a Public Health Nurse - 905-684-7555
2. Health811 - Breastfeeding advice and referrals - 1-866-797-0007
3. La Leche League Canada – Mother-to-mother breastfeeding support - 613-238-5919