Last updated: June 2026
The clear answer: there is not enough clinical evidence to confirm CBD is safe during pregnancy. In the absence of this evidence, the precautionary advice is to avoid CBD during pregnancy, while trying to conceive, and while breastfeeding. This article explains why — and what the current evidence shows.
Can you use CBD oil while pregnant?
While CBD is generally well tolerated by healthy adults, pregnancy is a different context entirely. There has been very little research on CBD use in human pregnancy, and in the absence of safety data, the precautionary principle applies. We simply do not know whether CBD may harm an unborn baby — and that uncertainty is reason enough to avoid it.
Can CBD directly affect a foetus?
There are indications that CBD may be able to cross the placental barrier. When taken sublingually, CBD enters the bloodstream directly — and since mother and baby share blood supply through the placenta, CBD may have the potential to reach the foetus. No definitive human research confirms this, but the mechanism is plausible enough to justify caution.
Is CBD safe during pregnancy?
In short — not recommended. Available animal research found adverse effects on offspring when CBD was given to pregnant mice. While data from mice cannot be directly applied to humans, it reinforces the case for caution in the absence of human clinical trials. CBD products are not advised for pregnant women by the UK Food Standards Agency.
CBD when trying to conceive
Evidence is equally limited here. Some animal research found that elevated anandamide levels — which CBD may support by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks anandamide down — could inhibit embryo development in mice. Similar findings were noted in chick embryo studies. As a precaution, many clinicians advise avoiding CBD while actively trying to conceive. The safest approach is to discuss this with your GP or fertility specialist.
Can you use CBD for morning sickness?
No — this is not recommended. While CBD has been explored for nausea in other contexts, using it for morning sickness would mean exposing an unborn baby to a substance with an unconfirmed safety profile in pregnancy. Speak to your midwife or GP for evidence-based options for managing morning sickness.
Is CBD safe while breastfeeding?
The UK Food Standards Agency advises that breastfeeding mothers should not consume CBD products. Research published in the journal Pediatrics found that low levels of both THC and CBD may be present in breast milk for up to six days after maternal cannabis use. In the absence of definitive safety data, avoid CBD while breastfeeding.
Read more: How long does CBD stay in your system?
Can you use CBD skin products during pregnancy?
This is less clear-cut. Standard topical CBD products (balms, face creams) generally deliver very little CBD to the bloodstream. However, transdermal formulations are specifically designed to penetrate the skin barrier and enter the bloodstream — these should be avoided. Check whether your skincare contains CBD (cannabidiol) or just hemp seed oil — hemp seed oil contains no CBD and is generally considered safe in pregnancy. If in doubt, contact the brand directly and consult your midwife.
Read more: Hemp oil vs CBD oil
Alternatives to CBD during pregnancy
If you were using CBD for stress, sleep or general wellness, consider these evidence-safer alternatives during pregnancy:
- Prenatal vitamins — as recommended by your midwife or GP (folic acid, vitamin D, iron)
- Magnesium glycinate — well-tolerated in appropriate doses; supports sleep and muscle comfort — always confirm with your GP first
- Low-impact exercise — swimming, prenatal yoga, gentle walking support sleep and mood
- Balanced whole-food diet — rich in leafy greens, protein and complex carbohydrates
- Mindfulness and breathing — well-evidenced for stress management during pregnancy
Frequently asked questions
Is CBD oil safe during pregnancy?
No — not recommended. There is insufficient clinical evidence to confirm safety, and precautionary guidance from the UK FSA advises pregnant women to avoid CBD products.
Can CBD help with morning sickness?
This is not recommended. Even if CBD has anti-nausea properties in other contexts, using it during pregnancy exposes an unborn baby to a substance without confirmed pregnancy safety data. Speak to your midwife for evidence-based options.
Is CBD safe while breastfeeding?
No. The FSA advises breastfeeding mothers not to consume CBD. Cannabinoids may be present in breast milk for several days after use.
Can I use CBD when trying to conceive?
Animal research raises concerns about cannabinoids and embryo development. Many clinicians advise avoiding CBD while trying to conceive. Discuss with your GP or fertility specialist.
Are CBD skin products safe in pregnancy?
Standard topicals generally deliver very little CBD to the bloodstream and may be lower risk — but transdermal formulations are designed to penetrate the skin and should be avoided. Check whether products contain CBD or just hemp seed oil, and consult your midwife if unsure.
What are safe alternatives to CBD during pregnancy?
Prenatal vitamins, appropriate magnesium supplementation (with GP approval), low-impact exercise, a balanced diet and mindfulness practices are all evidence-backed options for sleep, stress and wellbeing during pregnancy.
Final thoughts on CBD and pregnancy
When it comes to pregnancy, breastfeeding and conception, the precautionary principle is the right one. There simply isn’t enough human research to confirm CBD is safe — and given the vulnerability of a developing baby, avoiding CBD until more evidence exists is the responsible choice. When you’re ready to return to CBD after pregnancy and breastfeeding, take our quiz to find the right formula for you.
Always speak to your midwife, GP or obstetrician before taking any supplement during pregnancy.
