CBD & Postpartum Moms

CBD for Postpartum Health and Beyond: A Guide for Moms

Moms, especially new mothers experience a range of emotions, physical changes, and sleepless nights. You may have heard about cannabidiol (CBD) and its potential benefits for managing stress, anxiety, pain, and other conditions. But is CBD safe to use during the postpartum period and while breastfeeding? What are the top reasons mothers use CBD, and what medications can it replace? In this guide, we will explore the latest research on CBD and its potential role in supporting maternal health.

What is CBD?

CBD is a non-intoxicating compound found in the cannabis plant. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana, CBD has no psychoactive effects. CBD products are derived from hemp, a type of cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC by dry weight. CBD has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects, including reducing anxiety, inflammation, and pain.[1]

CBD as a "Safer" Alternative to THC

THC use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended due to potential risks to the developing fetus and infant. THC can cross the placenta and accumulate in breast milk, which may lead to impaired brain development, poor cognitive function, and other adverse outcomes. CBD, on the other hand, has not been associated with these risks. CBD products that are derived from hemp and contain less than 0.3% THC are legal under federal law and can be purchased over the counter or online.[2]

The Risks to Neonates from Cannabinoids Expressed in Breast Milk

Although CBD itself may be safe for breastfeeding mothers, the same cannot be said for all cannabinoids. Research has shown that THC can be transferred to breast milk and remain detectable for up to six days after the last use. Other cannabinoids, such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabichromene (CBC), have also been detected in breast milk. While the effects of these cannabinoids on infant development are not fully understood, it is recommended that breastfeeding mothers avoid using cannabis or cannabis-derived products that contain THC.[3]

Top Five Reasons Mothers Use CBD

1. Anxiety and Depression

Postpartum depression affects up to 1 in 7 mothers, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. While antidepressant medications are commonly prescribed, they may have side effects and take several weeks to show benefits. CBD has been studied for its potential anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage their symptoms.

One study published in The Permanente Journal found that out of 72 adults with anxiety and/or sleep disorders, 79.2% experienced a decrease in anxiety scores within the first month of CBD use.[4] Another case series published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reported that CBD may have therapeutic effects for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).[5] However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term safety of CBD for anxiety and depression.

2. Pain and Inflammation

Childbirth can cause physical pain and inflammation that may persist for weeks or months after delivery. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids are commonly used to manage pain, but they may have side effects and risks of addiction. CBD has been studied for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage postpartum pain.

One review published in Future Medicinal Chemistry found that cannabinoids, including CBD, may have anti-inflammatory effects and modulate immune cell function.[6] Another study published in The Journal of Pain found that CBD may reduce pain sensitivity in patients with chronic pain.[7] However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term safety of CBD for pain management.

3. Sleep Disorders

Sleep deprivation is a common problem for new mothers, and it can have a negative impact on mood, cognitive function, and overall health. While sleep aids such as benzodiazepines and hypnotics are commonly prescribed, they may have side effects and risks of addiction. CBD has been studied for its potential sedative and sleep-promoting effects, and some mothers have reported using it to improve their sleep quality.

One study published in The Permanente Journal found that out of 72 adults with anxiety and/or sleep disorders, 66.7% experienced improved sleep scores within the first month of CBD use.[4] Another study published in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that CBD may have a positive effect on sleep quality and daytime alertness in patients with Parkinson's disease.[8] However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term safety of CBD for sleep disorders.

4. Skin Conditions

Hormonal changes during pregnancy and breastfeeding can cause a range of skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Topical steroids and other medications are commonly used to manage these conditions, but they may have side effects and limited effectiveness. CBD has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage their skin conditions.

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD may have a potential role in managing acne, due to its anti-inflammatory and sebum-reducing effects.[9] Another study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that CBD may have a potential role in managing psoriasis, due to its immunomodulatory effects.[10] However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term safety of CBD for skin conditions.

5. Mood and Wellness

Motherhood can be a challenging and rewarding experience, and many mothers are looking for natural ways to support their mood and overall wellness. CBD has been studied for its potential benefits in improving mood, reducing stress, and promoting overall wellness.

One study published in Frontiers in Immunology found that CBD may have a potential role in regulating the immune system and reducing inflammation, which may contribute to overall health and well-being.[11] Another study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that CBD may have a potential role in reducing stress and improving mood in patients with social anxiety disorder.[12] However, more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term safety of CBD for mood and wellness.

Medications Moms Use CBD to Replace

Many mothers are looking for natural alternatives to medications that may have side effects, risks of addiction, or other concerns. Here are some of the medications that mothers have reported replacing with CBD:

1. Antidepressants: While antidepressant medications are commonly prescribed for postpartum depression, they may have side effects and take several weeks to show benefits. CBD has been studied for its potential anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage their symptoms.

2. Painkillers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids are commonly used to manage postpartum pain, but they may have side effects and risks of addiction. CBD has been studied for its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage their pain.

3. Sleep Aids: Benzodiazepines and hypnotics are commonly prescribed for sleep disorders, but they may have side effects and risks of addiction. CBD has been studied for its potential sedative and sleep-promoting effects, and some mothers have reported using it to improve their sleep quality.

4. Anti-anxiety Medications: Benzodiazines and other anti-anxiety medications are commonly prescribed for postpartum anxiety, but they may have side effects and risks of addiction. CBD has been studied for its potential anti-anxiety effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage their symptoms.

5. Anti-nausea Medications: Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and medications such as ondansetron are commonly prescribed. However, these medications may have side effects and risks for the fetus or infant. CBD has been studied for its potential anti-nausea and vomiting effects, and some mothers have reported using it to manage their symptoms.

Moms' use of CBD: what's the trend?

The use of CBD among new mothers is a growing trend, as more and more women are looking for natural alternatives to manage their symptoms and support their overall health and wellness. According to a survey conducted by the online community BabyCenter, 10% of new mothers reported using CBD during pregnancy or breastfeeding.[13] This trend is reflected in the growing market for CBD products marketed specifically to new mothers, such as CBD-infused lotions, tinctures, and teas.

However, it is important to note that the legal and regulatory status of CBD products can vary by state and country, and mothers should consult with their healthcare providers before using CBD products during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is also important to choose high-quality CBD products from reputable sources, and to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.

CBD has shown promise as a natural alternative to traditional medications for a range of postpartum symptoms, including anxiety, pain, sleep disorders, skin conditions, and mood and wellness. While more research is needed to determine the optimal dosage and long-term safety of CBD for these conditions, many mothers have reported using CBD to manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. As the use of CBD among new mothers continues to grow, it is important to prioritize safety and education, and to work with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about the use of CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We recommend discussing if CBD is right for you with your health care provider prior to beginning use and using only reliable trusted sources like those that can be found on drdamas.com