Vaping while breastfeeding can allow harmful chemicals to pass from mother to infant through breast milk. You can breastfeed if you are vaping. Although it is true that nicotine moves readily into breast milk, the advantages of breastfeeding are believed to outweigh the risks of nicotine exposure compared with choosing to feed your baby formula.
Is there a connection between vaping and breast milk?
However, most breastfeeding women that want to enjoy their daily dose of nicotine are still concerned about the possible presence of nicotine in their breast milk. This article focuses on revealing a real connection between vaping and breastfeeding. How Long Does It Take for Nicotine to Get Out of Breast Milk?
Is it safe to vape while breastfeeding?
A baby should be breastfed for at least the first 6 months. Breast milk provides balanced nutrients and protection against infections. It also provides an excellent way for a mother and the baby to bond. As a precaution, however, it’s essential to vape after breastfeeding. That’s because waiting means your baby won’t get nicotine from breast milk.
What are the effects of nicotine in breastmilk?
Research shows that nicotine in a mother's breastmilk can affect infant sleep patterns―raising the risk for blood sugar and thyroid problems that can lead children to become overweight. Nicotine is also thought to decrease milk supply in nursing mothers, possibly by lowering levels of the breastmilk-stimulating hormone prolactin.
What are the dangers of using a cigarette while breastfeeding?
Cigarettes are made up of tobacco and many dangerous substances. Tobacco contains nicotine, a potent and highly addictive chemical that can affect you and your baby. Since nicotine does pass through breast milk, it can cause symptoms of infant colic, restlessness, sleep difficulties, and the jitters in your child.
Will vaping affect my breast milk?
Using tobacco or e-cigarettes while breastfeeding can allow harmful chemicals to pass from the mother to the infant through breast milk or secondhand smoke exposure.
How long does vape smoke stay in breastmilk?
The half life of nicotine in breast milk is variously quoted as 95 minutes (Mohrbacher, 2020) or 120 minutes (halesmeds.com 2020).
Is vaping better than smoking when breastfeeding?
E-cigarettes, vaping and breastfeeding While using an e-cigarette (vaping) is a lot safer than smoking, it is not completely risk free. As well as nicotine, e-cigarette liquid and vapour can contain toxic substances, although these are mostly at much lower levels than in cigarette smoke.
Can a baby get addicted to nicotine through breast milk?
Exposure to high levels of nicotine through breast milk can potentially cause nicotine dependence and nicotine poisoning in babies. The symptoms of nicotine poisoning are rare and occur in babies who are exposed to a lot of smoke.
What effects can tobacco or e-cigarette exposure have on infants?
Regardless of feeding method (breastfeeding or infant formula), maternal smoking is a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), as well as lower respiratory illnesses (such as bronchitis and pneumonia), ear infections, and impaired lung function in infants and children .
How to promote smoking cessation?
recognize pregnancy and lactation as two ideal times to promote tobacco and smoking cessation. To minimize exposure to the infant, mothers and others who smoke should: not smoke near the infant. smoke outside. have smoke-free rules for the car and home.
What to do after smoking and prior to handling an infant?
change clothes and wash hands after smoking and prior to handling the infant.
What is an e-cigarette?
E-cigarettes, and other vaping devices, are battery-powered devices that typically deliver nicotine, flavorings, and other additives through an inhaled aerosol. Little is known about the effects of e-cigarette use by the mother on the infant’s health.
Can you smoke while breastfeeding?
Using tobacco or e-cigarettes while breastfeeding can allow harmful chemicals to pass from the mother to the infant through breast milk or secondhand smoke exposure. Mothers who use tobacco or e-cigarettes should be encouraged to quit; regardless, breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits and breast milk remains the recommended food for an infant.
Can you smoke e-cigarettes while breastfeeding?
Yes. Mothers who use tobacco or e-cigarettes should be encouraged to quit; regardless, breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits and breast milk remains the recommended food for an infant. recognize pregnancy and lactation as two ideal times to promote tobacco and smoking cessation.
How does nicotine patch work?
Nicotine skin patches provide a steady level of continual nicotine. This prevents the possibility of timing breastfeeds so that nicotine levels are lower in breast milk at the time of a breastfeed. However, using the lowest strength patch available e.g. 7 mg is said to reduce a baby’s exposure to nicotine by as much as 70% compared to smoking or using a high strength patch. 6 7 Removing the patch at bedtime can lower the levels of nicotine at night. 8 Following a clinical trial, breastfeeding and medications expert Thomas Hale and colleagues say nicotine patches are safer than smoking:
What is an electronic cigarette?
Electronic cigarettes or e-cigarettes (electronic nicotine delivery systems) are battery powered fake cigarettes consisting of a mouth piece, a cartridge with nicotine and other chemicals, and an atomiser that converts the liquid into a vapour. Some look like a traditional cigarette and some look more like a pen and are called vaporisers. In the UK e-cigarettes are regulated under the UK Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 which translates the European Union Tobacco Products Directive (2014/40/EU) into UK law. 9 In America different brands are not safety regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and contain various chemicals and flavourings with varying amounts of nicotine 10 11.
How much nicotine is in gum?
Hale says levels of blood nicotine from chewing gum may be 30-60% of the levels of blood nicotine found in cigarette smokers. Hale also states however that if the gum is chewed rapidly the levels of nicotine may be similar to smoking itself.
What is the P592?
2020. p592. Nicotine replacement products provide blood nicotine levels high enough to prevent or reduce withdrawal symptoms but without the “buzz” of cigarettes. They are also missing the tars, carbon monoxide, and lung irritants that come with smoking.
Is nicotine inhaler safe for breastfeeding?
Medications author Thomas Hale says levels of nicotine dispens ed in an inhaler are probably too low to affect a breastfeeding baby (Halesmeds.com. 2018) . But as with all nicotine replacement products, levels will depend on how used:
Does nicotine gum affect breastfeeding?
Blood levels of nicotine from nicotine gum can vary quite widely and may be similar to smoking traditional cigarettes however there aren’t any studies on breastfeeding mothers using this product ( Lactmed, 2018). Hale says levels of blood nicotine from chewing gum may be 30-60% of the levels of blood nicotine found in cigarette smokers. Hale also states however that if the gum is chewed rapidly the levels of nicotine may be similar to smoking itself. Breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid breastfeeding for two to three hours after chewing this product (Halesmeds.com. 2018)
Does nicotine nasal spray work?
A nicotine nasal spray delivers nicotine to the blood more rapidly compared to other NRT products and is closer to the rate of nicotine delivery of cigarette smoking ( Benowitz et al, 2009). Even so Lactmed says that a nicotine spray reduces blood and probably breast milk levels of nicotine by two thirds compared with smoking a cigarette although no studies on breastfeeding mothers have been reported.
What is Vaping?
A vape or electronic cigarette is a device created to heat up liquid containing tobacco or marijuana to create a vapor that the user can inhale. Vaping has become one of the most popular methods of consuming both tobacco and marijuana products.
Types of Vaping Devices
Whether a vaping newbie or someone who has vaped for quite some time, you may not know the different types of vaping devices available. There are standard devices and then those for the technology savvy. Vaping devices come in four categories:
Is it Safe to Vape While Breastfeeding?
The CDC encourages breastfeeding mothers to quit vaping. Even if they are still vaping, they still consider it best to continue with breastfeeding. Breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits, and breast milk is still the recommended food for infants. As with smoking, it is highly recommended to avoid vaping around your infant.
Does Vaping Affect Breast Milk Supply?
Vaping does affect breast milk supply. The effects are due to the fact that nicotine easily crosses into breast milk from the mother. This nicotine is ingested via breastmilk and absorbed into the system of the infant. In some studies, the impact on infants who ingest the breast milk supply that has nicotine in it include:
Vaping Health Risks
Vaping is seen as a safer alternative to smoking cigarettes. It contains anywhere from one-third to half the nicotine found in a regular cigarette. Although there may be less nicotine, there are many other risks to vaping. The liquid itself and the vapor it produces contains harmful substances like:
Can I Vape With No Nicotine While Breastfeeding?
It is not recommended to vape nicotine-free e-cigarettes. The recommendation is because even some nicotine-free advertised e-cigarettes still contain nicotine. In a 2019 Australian study, six out of 10 nicotine-free e-liquids still had nicotine. There were also test samples that found 2-chlorophenol.
CBD Vape While Breastfeeding
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises against using cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and marijuana while breastfeeding. There are many negative health effects from using marijuana and other THC-containing products while breastfeeding.
Is it ok to use e-cigarettes or JUUL to help me quit smoking if I'm pregnant?
No. E-cigarettes or JUUL are not yet regulated nor approved by the FDA as a way to quit smoking. They both contain significant amounts of nicotine and are NOT safer. There are more effective and safer ways to quit smoking when you are pregnant, including:
Are e-cigarettes safe to use while pregnant?
No, e-cigs are NOT safe to use while pregnant. Tobacco companies advertise e-cigs as safe alternatives to traditional cigarettes, since they don't release the same chemicals as burning tobacco smoke. However, e-cig vapor or aerosol still contains many other harmful substances. Also, due to the lack of regulation, the chemical compounds in e-cigarettes can vary between brands.
What are the effects of nicotine on a developing fetus and newborn baby?
Research on the effects of vaping on fetuses and newborns has lagged behind the quick rise in e-cigarette use.
Does nicotine from e-cigarettes get into breastmilk?
Yes. Inhal ed nicotine enters a mother's blood through her lungs, and then easily passes into breastmilk. Research shows that nicotine in a mother's breastmilk can affect infant sleep patterns―raising the risk for blood sugar and thyroid problems that can lead children to become overweight. Nicotine is also thought to decrease milk supply in nursing mothers, possibly by lowering levels of the breastmilk-stimulating hormone prolactin.
How to keep a baby from smoking?
Make your house and car smoke-free to keep your baby away from secondhand smoke. After vaping, change your clothes, and wash your hands before holding your baby. Nurse your baby before, rather than after, vaping. Your body will have more time to clear the nicotine from breast milk. Don't give up trying to quit.
What are the chemicals that are in the air?
cancer-causing chemicals such as nitrosamines, formaldehyde, and propylene glycol (a solvent used in anti-freeze). heavy metals, including nickel, tin and lead.
What is the chemical in e-cigarette vapor?
flavoring like diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious, irreversible lung disease called obliterative bronchiolitis.
How long after smoking can you breastfeed?
Plus, you're more likely to breastfeed longer if you smoke fewer cigarettes each day. Nicotine levels in your breast milk will be lower if you wait at least 2 hours after your last cigarette to feed your baby.
How long after smoking can you give a baby a cigarette?
Nicotine levels in your breast milk will be lower if you wait at least 2 hours after your last cigarette to feed your baby. The lower levels of nicotine in your body can also help you to have a better let-down reflex. Don't Smoke While You're Holding Your Baby.
What happens if you smoke and your baby is sick?
You are the most important person in your child's life and your baby needs you. Smoking can lead to life-threatening illness such as cancer, COPD, and heart disease, which can take you away from your child. 3. If you smoke, try to quit. If you don't think you can stop smoking on your own, there is help.
Why is the rate of early weaning higher in smokers?
The rate of early weaning may be higher in [people who smoke because they are more likely to struggle with a low breast milk supply and a slow or difficult let-down of breast milk. 2.
What happens if a baby breathes in smoke?
Other Dangers of Second-Hand Smoke: If your baby breathes in smoke from being around you or others who are smoking, they will have a greater risk of developing asthma, bronchitis, and ear infections. 5.
What are the health problems associated with tobacco?
Debilitating Diseases: The use of tobacco products is associated with chronic illness and death from serious health problems such as lung cancer, other cancers, stroke, emphysema, and cardiac problems. 5
What is Donna Murray's degree?
Donna Murray, RN, BSN has a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rutgers University and is a current member of Sigma Theta Tau, the Nursing Honor Society.
How many cigarettes should a mom smoke?
If a mom smokes fewer than 20 cigarettes per day, the risks from nicotine exposure are not as significant. But if a mom smokes more than 20 to 30 cigarettes per day, this increases the baby’s risk for: If you do continue to smoke, wait at least one hour after you finish smoking before breast-feeding your baby.
What are the effects of smoking on breast milk?
Other effects associated with smoking and milk supply include: Babies of women who smoke are more likely to experience altered sleep patterns. Babies exposed to smoke via breast-feeding are more susceptible to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and the development of allergy-related diseases like asthma. Nicotine present in breast milk can lead ...
What is the best way to kick the habit of breast feeding?
Nicotine patches are an option for new moms wishing to kick the habit and breast-feed. According to La Leche League International, nicotine patches are preferred to nicotine gum.
What are the chemicals in cigarettes?
A number of harmful chemicals have been detected in cigarettes, including: 1 arsenic 2 cyanide 3 lead 4 formaldehyde
Does smoking cause a baby to produce less milk?
Smoking not only transmits harmful chemicals to your baby via your breast milk, it can also affect a new mother’s milk supply. This might cause her to produce less milk.
Does smoking affect a baby?
Smoking not only affects a growing baby during pregnancy, but it might have drawbacks for a breast-feeding mom. Smoking might reduce a breast-feeding mom’s milk supply. Passing nicotine and other toxins via breast milk is also associated with increased incidences of fussiness, nausea, and restlessness in babies.
Is nicotine in breast milk harmful?
But the benefits of breast-feeding are still thought to outweigh the risks of nico tine exposure while breast- feeding.
Why do you ask for help when you're sick?
Ask for help at home when you’re sick so you can continue to make enough breast milk to nurse or pump for the baby. “Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery.
How to replenish milk supply?
Follow these tips to help replenish the supply: ● Pump a little extra: Increase the frequency of your pumping, and make sure your breasts are completely empty after each feeding. Even if your baby isn’t hungry, ...
Why do you pump when you are pregnant?
Pumping tells the body to continue producing, even if the baby isn’t eating at that moment . Breast milk keeps well in the freezer, so pump at work if you can and store it for later use. 3. Eating or drinking too little. It can be tempting to diet in order to lose extra weight you gain during pregnancy.
Why does my baby's milk supply decrease?
Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply. I’ve seen women who, within 24 hours, have gone from having an ample milk supply to literally none due to stress.
What is the best way to increase milk production?
There also are products such as mother’s milk cookies and teas that are thought to increase milk production. The main ingredient in these is fenugreek, a seed that also is available as a supplement. While we encourage breastfeeding, it’s not the only way for your baby to be healthy.
How to lose weight while pregnant?
It can be tempting to diet in order to lose extra weight you gain during pregnancy. While a healthy diet is important, make sure to eat enough to replenish the 500 calories breastfeeding burns each day. Consider eating a healthy snack, such as an apple with nut butter, between meals to close the calorie gap.
Why does breast milk decrease?
Stress and symptoms related to illness can decrease your breast milk supply.
How long does THC stay in breast milk?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Trusted Source. reports that THC can remain in breast milk for up to 6 days. But it’s not just THC that breastfeeding parents need to be concerned about, according to Tamika Cross, MD, FACOG, and board-certified OB-GYN.
How long does breast milk contain THC?
Along with the FDA, these groups advise against the use of cannabidiol, tetrahydrocannabinol, and cannabis in any form, especially since studies show that breast milk can contain THC for up to 6 days after use.
How much THC is in a kilogram?
This equates to about 8 micrograms of THC per kilogram of body weight over the course of a day. Although that may not sound like a lot, experts are still very concerned about the potential effect of cannabis on a developing infant, and more specifically, on their brain.
What journal published a study on cannabis?
A small study published in the journal Obstetrics and Gynecology analyzed breast milk samples from mothers who regularly consumed cannabis.
Can breastfeeding affect brain development?
Additionally, researchers say it’s reasonable to speculate that THC or cannabidiol (CBD) exposure during breastfeeding could alter brain development in infants.
Can you use weed while breastfeeding?
The AAP’s official statement on the use of weed by breastfeeding mothers states that the risks are unknown. For this reason, you need to know the potential risk — and avoid cannabis products while breastfeeding. And that’s exactly what Gina Posner, MD, a pediatrician at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center, tells her families.
Can you breastfeed a baby with weed?
The AAP’s official statement on the use of weed by breastfeeding mothers states that the risks are unknown.
