Marijuana has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes, and as more and more states legalize recreational marijuana, more and more people are using it for fun. But is it safe to use marijuana while breastfeeding?
Like with most things related to parenting, the answer is not black and white. Some experts say that marijuana passes through breastmilk in small amounts and is therefore unlikely to harm a baby. Others advise against using marijuana at all while breastfeeding since there is not enough research on the topic.
So, what’s a new parent to do? In this article, we’ll go over some tips for parents who want to breastfeed while high and some things to avoid.
Is it Safe to Breastfeed While High?
Marijuana use during pregnancy has been a controversial topic for many years. Some worry that the drug could have harmful effects on the developing fetus, while others argue that it could actually have benefits.
In a recent study, researchers compared early preterm infants who were fed breast milk from THC-positive mothers to those who were fed either formula or breast milk from THC-negative mothers. They found no differences in short-term health impacts such as breathing difficulties, lung development, and feeding issues.
Overall, early preterm babies born to mothers who tested positive for marijuana at delivery were similarly healthy by the time of their discharge when fed their mother’s breast milk compared to those who did not receive their mother’s breast milk. This research provides important new information about the safety of marijuana use during pregnancy and will help to inform future debates on the topic.
Ultimately, the decision to breastfeed while high on cannabis is a personal one. If you’re concerned about the potential risks, consider talking to your healthcare provider.
9 Tips for Parents Who Want to Breastfeed While High
If you decide that breastfeeding while high is right for you and your baby, here are 9 tips to help you make the most of the experience:
1-Get used to breastfeeding while sober first:
If you’re a new mom, it’s important to get the hang of breastfeeding while you’re sober before trying it while high. This will help you to be more comfortable and confident when you do decide to try it while high.
2-Find a comfortable position:
Experts recommend you find a position that’s comfortable for both you and your baby before starting your feeding session. You may want to try sitting in a recliner or lying down on your side. Once you find a position that works, stick with it.
3-Be extra careful:
Since you’ll be less coordinated while high, it’s important to take extra care when breastfeeding. Make sure your baby is latched on correctly and be careful not to pull them off of your breast abruptly.
4-Try to relax and let your milk flow naturally:
Being high while breastfeeding will definitely make you and your baby feel more relaxed. It’s a good idea to take deep breaths and let your milk flow naturally. It may also help to listen to calming music and focus on the rhythm of your baby’s breathing.
5-Have everything you need within reach:
One of the side-effects of being high on cannabis is time seems to move more slowly. This is mainly due to increased focus and increased attention to detail. To make things easier, have everything you need within reach before you start breastfeeding. This includes a water bottle, a snack, your phone, a burp cloth, and anything else to make your feeding session easier.
6-Avoid distractions while breastfeeding:
Even the smallest distractions can make it more difficult to breastfeed while high. To help, turn off your phone and avoid anything that will distract you while breastfeeding. If you have other children, ask someone else to watch them if you plan on breastfeeding after smoking.
7-Avoid smoking weed around your baby:
Although research shows THC doesn’t have any short-term effects on babies, it’s important to avoid smoking weed around your baby. Secondhand smoke can still be harmful to infants and babies. So, it’s best to smoke your weed in another room and prior to breastfeeding.
8-Make sure you are well-hydrated:
Smoking weed has many side effects, one of which is dry mouth or cottonmouth. When you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to make sure you’re well-hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid drinks or foods that can dehydrate you, like coffee or salty snacks.
9-Seek help and support if needed:
If you’re new to breastfeeding, it can be tough to figure out how to do it while high. If you’re having trouble with latch, positioning, or anything else, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a lactation consultant, your partner, or a friend who’s a seasoned pro. There are also plenty of resources and online forums where you can ask questions and get advice from other moms who have been there before.
What Not to Do When Breastfeeding While High
Although many of the above tips are self-explanatory, there are a few things you should avoid when breastfeeding while high:
1-Don’t take any other controlled drugs:
It’s important to avoid taking any other controlled drugs, such as alcohol, prescription medication, or psychedelic drugs while breastfeeding. Some of the chemicals in these substances can pass into your breast milk and may have a negative effect on your baby’s health and development.
2-Don’t smoke cigarettes:
Smoking cigarettes is harmful to parents as well as nursing babies and should be avoided altogether, especially when breastfeeding. Cigarette smoke contains harmful chemicals that can be passed through breast milk to babies, including nicotine and tar. These substances can lead to health problems for both parents and babies, so you should quit smoking entirely if you’re breastfeeding.
3-Get help if you’re feeling paranoid or anxious:
If you start to feel paranoid or anxious while breastfeeding, it’s best to stop and get assistance from a sober person. It’s important to be in a calm and safe environment when breastfeeding so that you and your baby can relax.
4-Don’t breastfeed if you’re feeling sleepy:
It’s also important to avoid breastfeeding if you’re feeling sleepy. You may fall asleep and accidentally roll on top of your baby, which could be dangerous. If you’re tired, it’s best to pump your milk and have someone else feed your baby.
5-Don’t breastfeed if your baby is fussy:
If your baby gets fussy during the feeding session, it’s best to stop and take a break. Babies can get fussy for a variety of reasons, including hunger, being overstimulated, or being uncomfortable. If you’re not sure what’s causing your baby’s fussiness, try to soothe them in other ways or consult a lactation specialist.
By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding while high is a personal decision that should be made after careful consideration. If you do choose to breastfeed while high on marijuana, it’s important to take precautions to ensure a safe experience for both you and your baby. Be sure to drink plenty of water, avoid other drugs and cigarettes, and seek help if needed.
With a little preparation, breastfeeding while high can be a positive and bonding experience for both you and your baby. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to seek help from a healthcare professional or lactation consultant.
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