A new study published in Pediatrics shows chemicals from marijuana can be found in breast milk nearly a week after a mother last consumed the drug.

Researchers wrote that levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, were found in several mother’s breast milk up to six days after they said they’d last consumed marijuana in some form.

“Whether this means that some level-or any level-of these metabolites can negatively influence child development is unknown at this point,” senior study author Christina Chambers told CNN.

“This is a call to action to take the next steps to study long-term outcomes in these children.”

So far, there isn’t any solid information on how marijuana use affects developing fetuses or newborn children who are breast-feeding.

Some existing research suggests that chemicals like THC readily cross the placenta if consumed during pregnancy, and that these chemicals may adversely affect a developing fetus.

Researchers warn of health risks from preterm birth to higher likelihood of admittance to a neonatal intensive care unit.

“The question is, does it matter? Is it possible that even low levels in breast milk may have an effect on a child’s neurodevelopment?” Chambers told CNN. “And we don’t know the answer to that.”

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