You’ve just found out you’re pregnant… Your life is full of joy and excitement until the worries set in; you might find yourself rummaging through your medicine cabinets, trying to figure out which supplements and medicines are safe. If you are a CBD user, already you might be wondering is it safe during pregnancy?
Or you might be experiencing some anxiety or pain during your pregnancy with the hopes of finding a natural source of relief and discovering that CBD might be able to help you. But is it safe?
At New Phase Blends, we believe that knowledge is power. We will take a look at this question and more. Let’s unpack what we know.
What Exactly Is CBD?
CBD oil or cannabidiol is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant – both hemp and marijuana plants contain the compound and a host of other beneficial compounds.
CBD is most commonly known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and chronic pain relief properties. The other benefits include relief from anxiety, stress, PTSD, and insomnia.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) that is naturally found in the body. The ECS is similar to the central nervous system, and it plays a vital role in maintaining balance within the body and helps control pain, behavior, and moods. Cannabidiol interacts with the ECS and impacts the CB1 and CB2 receptors.
You may have heard of CBDa, recently. The University of Oregon issued a study that showed the cannabinoids CBDa and CBGa both may prevent the transmission of COVID in humans.
Interaction is not as strong as other cannabinoids, though. This is likely why the effects are different.
The Legality of CBD Oil
Hemp-derived CBD does not contain THC and is therefore legal in the U.S., according to the 2018 Farm Bill. It produces no psychoactive effects and offers many users relief from various conditions. While CBD is not FDA-approved completely, there are a few different FDA-approved CBD drugs on the market. They are used to combat seizure disorders and severe forms of epilepsy.
Related: State by state guide on the legalities of CBD in the USA.
CBD products are, however, being studied continuously and help many people across the globe daily.
While CBD might be legal to take, you should always consult your doctor for professional medical advice.
With that down, let’s examine whether it is safe for pregnant women.
The Joys and Pains of Pregnancy
It is a joyous milestone that most people celebrate at some point in their lives; however, pregnancy can be difficult for some. It places tremendous strain on your body; as the developing fetus grows and expands, it can put pressure on your joints, back, and pelvis.
You might experience parent-to-be anxieties and sleep difficulties. As stressful and complicated as it can be, a host of foods and medications that you aren’t allowed to take relief can be difficult to find at times.
Discover: Using CBD for Stress
At this point, many mothers-to-be look to natural and safe alternatives to tackle pain, insomnia, and anxiety.
The safety of CBD use during pregnancy is still being established through peer-reviewed studies and long-term research.
Why Would You Consider CBD for Pregnancy
There are several reasons pregnant women might consider taking CBD oil or using CBD-containing products such as balms, topicals, and creams.
Here are the most common reasons to use CBD during pregnancy:
- Relief from morning sickness
- Pain relief from stiff joints, aching feet, and back pain
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Hormonal shifts
- Pregnancy Acne
The reasons why anyone uses CBD are based on an individual level for everyone.
The Truth About Pregnancy and CBD Oil
The truth is, there aren’t enough studies on how CBD exposure impacts pregnancies. While some clinical studies have been performed on pregnant test animals, they are not conclusive, and we cannot be sure that the results will be the same for humans as with animal studies.
There are plenty of other contraindicated drugs unless necessary that are being prescribed to expectant mothers daily. There is always a risk with taking medicines or supplements, no matter how seemingly harmless they might be.
For this reason, you should ultimately speak to a doctor before you try it out, as if you are genuinely suffering, the effects of CBD might be more beneficial than the risks.
The THC Theory
It is well documented that THC found in some cannabis products made with the marijuana plant can negatively affect your pregnancy. Marijuana use has been studied with notable harmful effects on the development and function of the fetus’s brain and low birth weights.
This is directly linked to THC.
CBD derived from hemp plants is legal, and it contains near zero amounts of THC. While the two compounds might be related compounds, THC and CBD are different and interact differently within the body.
CBD is therefore considered much safer and milder.
Animal Studies
There is one notable study on Maternal cannabinoid exposure; however, there are some significant points to consider before diving into it. The study focused broadly on all cannabinoids’ effects on the mother; this can come from marijuana use. It must be noted that the study does not focus on CBD. Instead, it includes the use of THC.
There is no genuinely comprehensive research studying the safety of CBD use during pregnancy.
This is an essential factor to note as THC does not work the same way CBD does. THC has been known to impact people’s sleep negatively and has several harmful side effects that are not present with cannabidiol.
Potential Risks to the Developing Fetus
There are some risks to using cannabinoids such as marijuana while pregnant. A study on immune function suggested that fetal exposure can lead to adverse birth outcomes and issues with the immune system.
The study, however, also concluded that;
 “….most studies have focused on Δ9-THC and synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists, with very little research addressing the effects of CBD or endogenous ECS ligands. However, other cannabis components may also disrupt the fetal ECS and have long-term effects, highlighting the need for more whole cannabis exposure models, as well as experiments that consider other popular cannabis components such as CBD. “
Therefore further studies need to be performed to get a truly representative view of how CBD could benefit you during pregnancy and whether it is truly safe.
CBD and Breast Milk
While there are no conclusive studies on CBD’s effects during pregnancy, the possible risks could be the same for a breastfed baby. Many more women opt to breastfeed; it is becoming widely known that anything a mother ingests could pass into human milk and the baby.
A CBD has shown minimal risk to adults and children, and only a minimal amount is likely to pass through the milk, so it could potentially be safe during breastfeeding for some.
Whether the presence of CBD in human milk harms the mother’s milk production or the baby is unknown at this stage. It is, however, essential to note that in studies conducted with cannabis, the compound stayed present in the milk for up to six days meaning pumping and dumping was not viable option.
However, the studies performed were based on marijuana use, not CBD.
So, Is CBD Safe for Pregnancy?
There are no conclusive answers to this question. While the studies and officials do not weigh in on the matter, the FDA strongly advises to use caution with many things during pregnancy and to avoid CBD; it is up to you and your medical team to decide what is best for you and your baby.
There are some vital factors you will need to consider. If the benefits outweigh the risks, you should consider how you will choose the right kind of CBD for your needs. Unless you are on other contraindicated medication with CBD, or there is a significant cause for concern, your doctor might just green light you and permit you to continue taking CBD after falling pregnant.
Be sure to check that it won’t interact with other prenatal vitamins that you might be taking.
At New Phase Blends, transparency is part of our ethos. We understand that many unscrupulous CBD companies out there have unfounded medical claims that can be dangerous at times.
This is why we have put together a guide to getting the very best out of your CBD products.
Choosing The Right CBD During Pregnancy
Not all CBD products are alike. There are several different forms and types of CBD products; which one you choose will depend greatly on the condition you would like to treat with CBD.
Before we look a the types of CBD products available, we need to look at essential considerations.
Inferior Quality Products
One of the most significant considerations when opting to use CBD oil is the quality of the ingredients. Poorly made CBD tinctures can contain high doses of toxic heavy metals (a risk for liver toxicity) and other impurities detrimental to pregnant or breastfeeding women.
This can have a massive impact on your pregnancy and the results of the product.
CBD potentially made by unscrupulous companies is dangerous, even if you aren’t pregnant. This is why it is essential only to purchase CBD from reputable companies. The company you choose should only use CBD from an organic hemp plant that has been added to good quality organic carrier oils such as coconut or MTC oil and other ingredients.
At New Phase Blends, we only use the finest organic hemp and other pure ingredients.
What’s Under a Label?
Reading a label and what it means is essential for all medications. This is especially essential while pregnant patients. Any CBD product should have a detailed label that contains all of the most critical information. I formation such as the ingredients and the potency should be visible on the product.
We have added a Q.R. code to our products, making it easy to access the 3rd party lab certificates for each product. The lab certification will illustrate exactly what is in the product, its strength, and the necessary safety information.
This information is vital when making the right choice; it might be best to skip it if the product isn’t accurately labeled.
Let’s look at the available products.
Topical Balms
Why use topicals? CBD-infused balms are perhaps the best option to go for when pregnant, as minimal amounts will pass through into the bloodstream and are less likely to cause any harm to the baby.
Pregnancy Acne
Some women glow when pregnant; others break out due to hormonal changes. Acne can be hard to live with during any time of life, never mind during pregnancy.
A CBD-infused ac e cream such as the NPB Glow can help reduce painful inflammation and target pimples and painful eruptions on the skin.
Aches and pains
Back and pelvis pain are common during pregnancy. It tends to get a little worse as you get towards the end of the third trimester.
CBD balm is an easy way to target painful areas and offer you relief in other areas that might have chronic pain.
Sore feet
Sore and swollen feet during pregnancy can be challenging to deal with. I can leave you feeling hot, bothered, and uncomfortable. Massaging some CBD Balm into your feet, with a bit of added magnesium cream can help reduce the swelling pain and lead to a better night’s sleep.
Migraines
as hormones fluctuate during pregnancy, it can be challenging to manage the migraines that come with it. Applying a small amount of topical CBD to the base of your neck can help soothe your sore head.
CBD Tinctures
CBD Tinctures are one of the most common ways to take CBD. They come in liquid form and are taken orally; the tincture is held under the tongue and then swallowed for optimal results. This makes it easy for the sublingual nerve to absorb all the beneficial effects of CBD quickly and effectively.
Tinctures are flavored and work just like any other CBD product.
The Takeaway on CBD and Pregnancy
While the jury is still out on whether there are serious risks associated with CBD during pregnancy, it is like any other prescription drug. While CBD use benefits outweigh the risks, it is a personal choice. U e caution and always consult with your healthcare professional before including anything new to your dietary supplements.
If you choose to include CBD oil in your life, make sure it is clean, organic, and from a reputable brand. As always, if you want to reach out and find out more about the benefits of CBD – get in touch with the New Phase Blends team. Check out our CBD products for sale.
References:
Acosta, K. (2021). 9 Science-Backed Benefits Of CBD Oil. [online] Forbes Health. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/health/body/cbd-oil-benefits/
‌Lu, H.-C. and Mackie, K. (2016). An Introduction to the Endogenous Cannabinoid System. Biological Psychiatry, [online] 79(7), pp.516–525. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4789136/
Acosta, K. (2022). CBD vs. THC: What’s The Difference? [online] Forbes Health. Available at: https://www.forbes.com/health/body/cbd-vs-thc/
‌MartÃnez-Peña, A.A., Perono, G.A., Gritis, S.A., Sharma, R., Selvakumar, S., Walker, O.S., Gurm, H., Holloway, A.C. and Raha, S. (2021). The Impact of Early Life Exposure to Cannabis: The Role of the Endocannabinoid System. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(16), p.8576.
www.acog.org. (n.d.). Marijuana Use During Pregnancy and Lactation. [online] Available at: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2017/10/marijuana-use-during-pregnancy-and-lactation
