Last updated: October 2026
No, CBD isn’t recommended while breastfeeding. The FSA advises against it, and a 2021 study found CBD passes into breast milk, where it was more concentrated than in the mother’s blood. Its effects on babies haven’t been studied, and some products contain THC. If you need help with sleep, stress or pain, speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor.
Below: what’s known about CBD in breast milk, why products with THC are a particular risk, what to do if you’ve already used CBD, and safer ways to cope with tiredness, stress and aches.
What UK guidance says
The Food Standards Agency advises that CBD isn’t recommended for people who are pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, or for anyone under 18. We don’t recommend our products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Does CBD pass into breast milk?
Yes. In a 2021 study of breastfeeding mothers who used cannabis, CBD was found in breast milk at concentrations around two and a half times those in their blood. CBD is fat-soluble, and breast milk is fatty, so it can build up there. How long it stays, and what it does to a developing baby, hasn’t been studied.
The THC risk
UK testing has found measurable THC in many CBD products. THC passes into breast milk too, and may affect a baby’s development and alertness. Even a product labelled THC-free can contain traces, so it’s another reason to avoid CBD while breastfeeding. See does CBD get you high?
I used CBD while breastfeeding: what now?
- Don’t panic, and you don’t need to stop breastfeeding.
- Stop using CBD.
- Tell your health visitor, GP or pharmacist what you took, how much and for how long.
- Watch your baby for unusual sleepiness, poor feeding or not seeming themselves, and seek advice if you’re worried.
If your baby seems very unwell, call 111 or 999.
What about CBD balm or skincare?
Much less CBD reaches the bloodstream from skin products, but there’s no safety data. Never apply CBD products to the breast or nipple area, where a baby could swallow them. If you want to use a CBD skincare product elsewhere, check with your pharmacist first.
What to try instead
| For | Try |
|---|---|
| Tiredness and sleep | Rest when the baby sleeps, accept help with night feeds, and a consistent bedtime routine |
| Stress and low mood | Talk to your health visitor or GP; postnatal depression and anxiety are common and treatable |
| Aches and pains | Ask a pharmacist which painkillers are suitable while breastfeeding; paracetamol and ibuprofen are often used |
| Nutrition | The NHS advises considering 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day in autumn and winter |
| Feeding support | The National Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212 |
Thinking about other supplements? See ashwagandha and breastfeeding and magnesium in pregnancy.
FAQs
Is CBD safe while breastfeeding?
It isn’t recommended. The FSA advises against it, CBD passes into breast milk, and its effects on babies haven’t been studied.
Does CBD get into breast milk?
Yes. A 2021 study found CBD in breast milk at around two and a half times the level in the mother’s blood.
How long should I wait to breastfeed after taking CBD?
There’s no known safe waiting time, because CBD can stay in the body for days or longer. The advice is to avoid it while breastfeeding.
Can I use CBD balm while breastfeeding?
There’s no safety data. Never use it on or near the breast, and ask your pharmacist before using it elsewhere.
I took CBD while breastfeeding. What should I do?
Stop using it, tell your health visitor or GP, and watch your baby for unusual sleepiness or poor feeding. You don’t need to stop breastfeeding.
Sources
- Moss MJ et al. Cannabis use and measurement of cannabinoids in plasma and breast milk of breastfeeding mothers. Pediatr Res, 2021.
- GOV.UK. FSA consumer advice on CBD.
- NHS. Breastfeeding and diet.
- National Health Executive. Centre for Medicinal Cannabis testing of UK CBD products, 2019.
This guide is general information. Always follow the advice of your GP, midwife or health visitor.
