Emma Armstrong
Why CBD Oil for labour pain?
Updated: Sep 7
The lowdown:
CBD oil is a plant compound extracted from the hemp or cannabis plant. Not to be confused with THC, which has hallucinatory effects, CBD oil is mostly a muscle relaxant. Also, it can also cause feelings of mild euphoria and drowsiness.
The Research:
While it is widely recommended that pregnant women should not smoke cannabis, some pregnant women take small amounts of CBD oil. This is to take the edge off morning sickness, muscle aches, and breast pain.
Hemp products have been used for centuries in Middle Eastern and Chinese cultures to help women through labour.
The Pro’s:
severe vomiting
cramps
anxiety and depression relief
CBD oil is mostly a muscle relaxant. Also, it can also cause feelings of mild euphoria and drowsiness.
Small doses of CBD oil for labour pain may be useful at this stage. It could ease these early contractions without slowing down the progress of labour. Warm baths are already recommended to women in early labour. Hence, a CBD oil bath bomb or bubble bath could work wonders here.
The Con’s:
Current FDA regulations do not advocate the use of CBD oil during pregnancy or the use of CBD oil for labour pain relief. Concerns over high doses of CBD, leading to potential fetal developmental problems circulate within the medical community, but there is currently little conclusive evidence in this field. Doctors advise that your baby will also ingest CBD products if consumed during pregnancy. It also remains in your system for several days after use so, during breastfeeding any CBD will be present in breast milk. However, doctors do prescribe cannabis medically for several other chronic pain and muscular conditions. There is no significant evidence that the compound is harmful to expectant mothers.
The How:
CBD products to be used during pregnancy are:
CBD Topical oils and creams
CBD bath bombs/shower bombs
CBD candles for Aromatherapy
There are so many products to choose from, too. Pick from CBD tinctures, CBD massage oils, bath bombs or essential oils and more.
When selecting CBD products online, ensure you choose a reputable source and do not take products that contain THC. Remember, if you’re thinking of taking CBD oil for labour pain relief, consult your doctor or midwife before use and do what works best for you! A happy mama means a happy baby!
Here are some additional resources https://www.greenbox.co.uk/can-you-take-cbd-oil-for-labour-pain/
https://www.theextract.co.uk/health/pain/cbd-for-labour-pain/
https://thekatynews.com/2021/05/25/can-cbd-oil-help-with-labour-pain/ You can find this and other great resources in the app https://www.thenakedbirth.com/shop