The American Academy of Pediatrics considers maternal marijuana use to be:

• A. An absolute contraindication to breastfeeding
• B. A relative contraindication to breastfeeding
• C. Not contraindicated to breastfeeding
• D. Not recommended to breastfeed

Answer: (B)

Understanding how maternal marijuana use affects breastfeeding decisions is key. The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies marijuana use during lactation as a relative contraindication. This reflects that cannabinoids like THC can pass into breast milk and baby's tissues, and there is concern they could affect a infant's sleep, feeding, or neurodevelopment. However, the evidence isn’t strong enough to declare breastfeeding universally unsafe in all cases, and the substantial benefits of human milk mean there isn’t an outright ban. Clinicians typically advise discussing risks with the mother, encouraging cessation or reduction of use, and, if breastfeeding continues, closely monitoring the infant for any signs of sedation or feeding problems.