CBD oil is gaining popularity for its medicinal use for a variety of conditions and symptoms. As parents, we want more information on the safety and efficacy of the use of CBD oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
For years, humans have been using THC for its medicinal benefits and it is now legal in 11 states, legal for medicinal purposes only in 34 states, yet still illegal in 18 states (1). While we can date the use of cannabis back to 2000 BC, it wasn’t until the early 1970s that it became labeled a Schedule I drug, which halted most research in its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding (2).
We know through extensive research that our body has its own endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS interacts with literally all bodily systems and works to maintain homeostasis (3). (Click HERE to read other BIRTHFIT Blogs relating to the way your body calls you to homeostasis.) CBD has shown to increase the endocannabinoid receptors as well as decrease the breakdown of endocannabinoids (4). It is from this homeostatic effect and the aforementioned properties that CBD oil has been linked to decreased anxiety, inflammation, nausea, vomiting, pain, and increased cognitive function and healing injuries (5).
All of these benefits sound glorious, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, the bottom line is, due to the drug scheduling of cannabis and recent increase in popularity for CBD’s healing properties, there is not enough research out there yet to give you a solid yes or no when it comes to the use of CBD oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If this topic is important to you, we recommend you further research the endocannabinoid system and its specific role in your health as a woman. Continue to ask questions, listen to your body and what makes sense for you at this time. Within the BIRTHFIT community, several of us have found CBD use that works for us. Reach out to your local Regional Director to connect in person on this topic and we look forward to keeping you informed on this topic as we learn more.
Sincerely,
*Rosebud CBD oil is a female run business that we fully support for quality and ethics.
References
- https://disa.com/map-of-marijuana-legality-by-state
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5473390/
- https://www.anxietyhack.com/endocannabinoid-system-dummies/
- Leweke, F. M., Piomelli, D., Pahlisch, F., Muhl, D., Gerth, C. W., Hoyer, C., … & Koethe, D. (2012). Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia. Translational psychiatry, 2(3), e94.
- Throckmorton, D. C. (2015). Cannabidiol: Barriers to Research and Potential Medical Benefits.