CBD and pregnancy: what is permitted? Risks & alternatives
CBD and pregnancy is a sensitive topic: because the state of research is insufficient, cannabidiol is expressly not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We explain the current recommendations and show safe alternatives.
The current recommendations on CBD in pregnancy
The topic of CBD and pregnancy is discussed controversially. Because the state of research is insufficient, CBD is expressly not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding by medical professional bodies. The endocannabinoid system takes part in embryonic development – external cannabinoids could have unknown effects.
Why the caution?
The FDA and the Swiss authorities advise pregnant women against CBD. Cannabinoids can pass the placenta and reach the bloodstream of the unborn child. Long-term studies on safety are missing.
What does the research say?
Animal studies show indications of possible effects on foetal development. Clinical studies in humans are limited for ethical reasons. Until valid data is available, the precautionary principle applies.
Pregnancy complaints – alternatives to CBD
Instead of CBD, safer options are recommended: acupuncture with nausea, tested magnesium preparations against cramps, pregnancy yoga against stress and medically guided therapies with anxiety disorders.
Sleep problems during pregnancy
Instead of CBD, sleep hygiene, breathing exercises and, if needed, remedies prescribed by a doctor help. Plant-based alternatives such as valerian should also only be taken after speaking to a doctor.
Breastfeeding and CBD
CBD is not recommended while breastfeeding either. Cannabinoids pass into breast milk and can reach the infant. The effects on the child’s development are not sufficiently researched.
After the pregnancy
After pregnancy and breastfeeding, CBD can be an option again with postnatal complaints, lack of sleep or postpartum exhaustion. Taking it should be clarified with your family doctor.
CBD cosmetics during pregnancy
Topical CBD skin care is regarded as less risky, as there is hardly any systemic absorption. Nevertheless, as a precaution all products containing CBD should be avoided here too or discussed with your gynaecologist.
The recommendation of the Swiss authorities
The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) recommends that pregnant and breastfeeding women do without CBD products. This cautious position applies internationally.
CBD and pregnancy – international recommendations
The FDA in the USA, the EMA in Europe and the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health all advise pregnant women against CBD. The topic of CBD and pregnancy is treated with caution, because the endocannabinoid system plays a role in embryonic development. The missing long-term studies call for the greatest restraint.
Advice from your gynaecologist
If you used CBD regularly before the pregnancy and are now planning to become pregnant, advice from your gynaecologist makes sense. Together you can discuss a safe approach – including alternatives for sleep, anxiety or pain complaints that can occur during pregnancy.
CBD and pregnancy – what about hemp foods?
Hemp seeds, hemp seed oil and hemp protein contain no notable CBD and are harmless during pregnancy – they even provide valuable omega-3 fatty acids. What matters is to distinguish clearly between pure hemp foods and products containing CBD.
Safe alternatives during pregnancy
Instead of combining CBD and pregnancy riskily, there are proven alternatives: magnesium against calf cramps, acupuncture with nausea, hypnobirthing against the fear of birth, tested herbal teas (raspberry leaf, lady’s mantle) and prenatal yoga. All measures should be discussed with your gynaecologist.
Frequently asked questions about CBD and pregnancy
May I take CBD during pregnancy?
No, using CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding is expressly advised against. The state of research is insufficient, and possible risks for the child cannot be ruled out.
What about CBD creams?
Topical CBD products should also be avoided during pregnancy or clarified with your gynaecologist.
Can I take CBD after the birth?
While breastfeeding CBD is not recommended. After breastfeeding, CBD can be used with complaints such as lack of sleep or postpartum exhaustion, with medical guidance.
Which alternatives are there?
Acupuncture with nausea, magnesium against cramps, yoga against stress and medically guided therapies with anxiety.
Related topics from our knowledge hub
Further information
- PubMed – the medical research database
- Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) Switzerland
- Wikipedia: cannabidiol
In short
CBD and pregnancy – the precautionary principle currently applies: do without it during pregnancy and breastfeeding. After that time CBD can be used again with complaints. Discover our wide range in the CBD Shop Switzerland or high-grade drops such as our CBD oil Swiss Extract.
Important: our product information describes the ingredients only and is not a promise of any medical benefit. CBD products are not medicines and are no substitute for medical advice. If you have health concerns, please speak to your doctor.