Are CBD bath bombs safe to use for breastfeeding moms?

May 13, 2024

Bringing a new life into the world? It's an incredible ride, isn't it? But let's talk about postpartum—it's like a rollercoaster of emotions and changes. Your body? It's been through the wringer with pregnancy and childbirth, leaving you with sore muscles, tight knots, fatigue, and just feeling like a tangled ball of exhaustion.

Amidst the sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, finding moments of relaxation becomes essential for new mothers. And what better way to unwind than with a luxurious bath?

However, if you're a nursing mom, it's natural to wonder about the safety of what you're tossing in that bathwater. You've probably heard about CBD bath bombs—they're all the rage lately, promising relaxation, relief, and a little extra love for your skin. It sounds like a dream, right? But are CBD bath bombs safe for breastfeeding moms?

What are CBD bath bombs?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound derived from the cannabis plant. It's revered for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, stress reduction, relaxation, and skincare.

CBD bath bombs combine the soothing properties of bath bombs with the potential benefits of CBD, offering a luxurious bathing experience that's not only relaxing but also potentially beneficial for your skin. It's no surprise that we've been flooded with questions from new moms about using CBD bath bombs in their tubs.

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But before we dive into the whole CBD bath bomb debate, let's chat about something important: bath time for new moms. I mean, who doesn't love a good soak? And for breastfeeding moms, it's like a little oasis in the chaos. So, let's break it down—what's so great about bath time for nursing mamas anyway?

Benefits of a bath for breastfeeding mothers

Pain Relief

Childbirth can result in various types of pain, from the soreness of childbirth to back pain and muscle aches. Soaking in a bath can help soothe sore muscles, providing relief from the physical demands of caring for a newborn and potentially easing discomfort associated with breastfeeding.

Relaxation

The demands of caring for a newborn, coupled with sleep deprivation, can increase stress and anxiety levels. A warm bath can provide a calming and relaxing experience, helping to alleviate stress and tension accumulated during the day.

Mental Health Support

Taking time for self-care with a bath can contribute to improved mental health, offering a moment of solitude and reflection amidst the demands of motherhood.

Sleep Aid

Many new mothers struggle to get adequate sleep due to their baby's feeding schedule and nighttime awakenings. A relaxing bath before bedtime may help promote better sleep, allowing breastfeeding mothers to maximize restorative rest during the night.

Improved Circulation

The warm water of a bath can promote circulation throughout the body, aiding in the recovery process after childbirth and supporting overall well-being.

Now that we've uncovered the perks of bath time for breastfeeding moms, let's get down to the nitty-gritty about the safety of CBD bath bombs for nursing mothers.

Why are some moms concerned about using CBD bath bombs?

One of the primary concerns surrounding the use of CBD bath bombs while breastfeeding is whether CBD can be absorbed through the skin and subsequently enter the bloodstream and breast milk.

But what many people don't realize is that breast milk already contains cannabinoids. While scientists have yet to pinpoint which cannabinoids are naturally occurring in breast milk, what people should be more concerned about is the potential transfer of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis.

Unlike THC, CBD (cannabidiol) is non-intoxicating and generally considered safe. However, some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC. Most CBD bath bombs contain little to no THC, but the presence of even small amounts raises questions about its safety for breastfeeding.

Is it safe to toss that CBD bath bomb into your tub if you're nursing?

Unlike orally ingested CBD products, such as oils or edibles, topical CBD products like bath bombs primarily target localized areas of the body. When immersed in a CBD-infused bath, the cannabinoid interacts with the cannabinoid receptors in the skin, potentially providing localized relief from soreness, tension, and inflammation. The likelihood of systemic absorption, and consequently, the transfer of any traces of THC (if present at all) from the CBD to breast milk, remains extremely low.

Therefore, topical CBD products like CBD bath bombs can be considered safe for nursing mothers, provided that the products are designed not to penetrate into the bloodstream. However, and there’s a big BUT, the existing research on this topic is limited, leaving uncertainty regarding the safety of such products. In fact, the FDA strongly advises against the use of CBD in any form during pregnancy and while breastfeeding due to the lack of research.

While the risk of THC transferring to breast milk through the use of CBD bath bombs may appear minimal if not non-existent, it's essential to err on the side of caution. If you're considering incorporating CBD bath bombs into your postpartum self-care routine, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider beforehand. They can offer personalized guidance based on your medical history and individual circumstances.

What CBD products should breastfeeding mothers avoid?

While the whole safety question about the use of CBD bath bombs is still a bit up in the air, there are some CBD products that breastfeeding moms should avoid to limit potential risk to the infant. Experts recommend staying away from CBD ingestible while you're nursing. That means things like oils, edibles, or anything else you swallow.

Studies suggest that CBD from ingestible can indeed penetrate the skin's layers and end up in your bloodstream, and find their way into your breast milk. However, the amount absorbed is typically minimal, making it unlikely to reach levels significant enough to affect breast milk composition or impact the nursing infant. But since we're all about keeping our little ones safe, it's best to skip those entirely for now.

Alternative Bath Additives

If you're on the fence about CBD bath bombs while nursing, there are loads of other options to make your bath time a dream. Sure, you can stick to regular bath bombs—they're still awesome! You can also switch things up by giving Epsom salts a try. They're renowned for their muscle-relaxing properties, perfect for soothing those postpartum aches and pains.

Don't forget about essential oils, too. Just add a few drops of lavender or chamomile into your bathwater, and you've got yourself a relaxing oasis. So, whether you're craving some self-care or looking to ease postpartum discomfort, there's no shortage of ways to pamper yourself safely in the tub.

Our verdict?

As a nursing mother, finding moments of relaxation and rejuvenation is essential for your overall well-being. While the allure of CBD bath bombs may be tempting, it's crucial to approach their use with caution and prioritize safety. Even though the CBD in CBD bath bombs does not enter your bloodstream and poses very little risk, it's still wise to be cautious. By understanding the science behind CBD absorption and consulting with your healthcare provider, you can make informed decisions that support your breastfeeding and postpartum journey.