Are CBD drinks safe during pregnancy? Here's what you should know.
More and more women are turning to CBD—a non-psychoactive chemical found in cannabis plants—to help them cope with pregnancy challenges. With so many product options available, CBD drinks are becoming a popular product choice. CBD drinks offer an easy (not to mention delicious) way to consume a precise amount of CBD.
What experts have to say about using CBD during pregnancy
But first, let's look at what a report published in the American Society of Anesthesiologists shows us about the opinion amongst women.
The American Society of Anesthesiologists conducted online surveys to assess how people feel about this topic. Approximately 315 women of reproductive age, 113 physician anesthesiologists, and 48 doulas participated.
The survey results found the following:
Amongst women of reproductive age
- 28% of women would use it during labor
- 20% of women would try it to reduce anxiety
- Similar findings with regards to relieving nausea and other symptoms
Amongst physicians
- 7% of physician anesthesiologists would consider it safe to offer it to their patients to help relieve anxiety
- 12% would offer it to patients to help manage pain during labor
Amongst certified midwives
- 42% would offer it to pregnant women to try to reduce anxiety, while 33% would consider it even in labor
"We observed women and doulas using CBD lotions during pregnancy and labor to reduce nausea, anxiety and pain. Although no studies have examined its benefits, no safety data exists, and its effects are largely unknown."
- Mark Zakowski, M.D., FASA, senior author of the study
Despite the largely accepting attitude amongst women and some experts, there are risks we may not be aware of. The biggest risk? Well, it's the fact that we don't know the risks involved.
Bottom Line upfront: Are CBD Drinks Safe During Pregnancy?
CBD drinks are becoming a popular alternative to common social stimulants. Besides that, people are enjoying them in other ways too. As a way to wind down at the end of a day or refresh during a warm summer's day. But are CBD drinks safe during pregnancy?
Sure, little research has been done on how CBD affects pregnant women. Perhaps this is why many experts agree that it's best to avoid using cannabis while you're expecting. We don't yet know enough about the effects of cannabis on a developing baby to be sure that it's safe for pregnant women.
To understand more, we should look at the cannabinoid’s safety as a whole. Let’s take a look.
CBD Recap
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound that has garnered much attention in recent months for its potential health benefits. CBD is one of the most abundant compounds found in cannabis. It's also present in hemp, a variety of cannabis that contains less than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high" many experience when using marijuana.
What do CBD users say the effects of CBD are?
From treating anxiety and aiding sleep to pain relief and suppressing nausea, it's no surprise that pregnant women are curious about CBD.
Are you one of them?
CBD is a compound found in marijuana and hemp. But unlike THC (which is the other major component), it doesn't cause you to get high.
The popularity of CBD-infused products has been growing steadily. Manufacturers are using it in products to create a delicious range of beverages and other products.
Some women are considering CBD for the following issues:
- Morning sickness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Stress and anxiety
- Pain
The FDA has approved CBD as a treatment for some conditions. It still urges women not to take any type of cannabis or CBD product while pregnant or breastfeeding. It could be dangerous for you and your baby.
Here are some reasons why the FDA warns against it
One concern with CBD is the lack of research on its effect on pregnant mothers and their unborn children.
Animal studies have shown that high levels of CBD can cause reproductive problems in male fetuses. The FDA says it's alarmed by the study's findings, but that doesn't prove the results are the same in humans.
Because THC is the component that gets you high, experts strongly suggest all THC when pregnant or breastfeeding. THC could harm brain development and cause stillbirth and birthing complications.
Furthermore, the FDA has received reports of some contaminated CBD products. These reports show some products could contain the following:
- Bacteria
- Pesticides
- Fungus
- Heavy metals
What do Doctors say?
Many or most OB-GYNS would hesitate to recommend CBD use during pregnancy. The widespread fear is mainly because there is not enough research on the effects of CBD on pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Scientists have yet to conduct long-term studies on the effects of hemp extracts during pregnancy.
Women should be aware of the risks associated with using phytocannabinoid products. If you are considering it, it is advisable you have a chat with your doctor beforehand.
While the main concern is related to a lack of studies, there is another concern as well. CBD products are generally poorly regulated. As such, products could contain contaminants and THC. This is why pregnant women keen on CBD products need to check the products before buying.
How to do that?
It starts with a bit of research, but the main thing is checking the company's third-party lab results. A little research on the brand's reputation will help identify straight off the bat if you should avoid the company or not.
If a company has passed the first checkpoint, the next step is to ensure they offer transparency. You need to be able to trust the brand, and if they are cagey about their manufacturing process, avoid them. A company should be forthright about where they source their hemp, too.
Most importantly, check a company's third-party lab results. Reputable brands will batch-test their products via a third-party testing facility. These results will show whether or not the products contain contaminants or other cannabinoids (such as THC).
So, we can't do anything about the lack of long-term studies or research on the possible harmful effects of CBD on pregnancy. That seems to be a waiting game. But as you can see, we can do something about the fear of contaminated products. Make sure you support companies that have your best interests at heart.
At the end of the day, whatever your choice, it is a good idea to consult your doctor about developing a safe treatment plan.
The Bottom Line
Are you looking for a CBD product to try? Why not try a CBD drink? They contain just enough CBD to feel the effects but are considered a dose low enough to avoid potential side effects.
CENTR CBD products are batch tested, and their third-party lab results are easy to find and even easier to read. You can ensure your CBD drink is free from contaminants and harmful levels of THC.
