Neonatal abstinence syndrome

Drug withdrawal in newborns (neonatal abstinence syndrome) is a set of problems that may affect a baby if certain drugs were used during pregnancy. The drugs pass through the placenta and enter the baby's bloodstream. The baby's body gets used to the drug. After birth, when the drug starts to leave the body, the baby goes through withdrawal. This may happen within hours after birth. Or it may happen later, depending on the drug.

This condition can be caused by certain prescription medicines or drugs. Some examples include opioids such as heroin, methadone, morphine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone.

Your baby's doctors and nurses will help you learn how to care for and bond with your baby. They'll also help you feel comfortable with the care that your baby gets in the NICU. For example:

• The NICU staff will do things to soothe your baby. For example, they may wrap your baby in a blanket. This is called swaddling. They can teach you how to do this.
• The NICU staff will closely watch your baby. Your baby may get fluids and oxygen if needed. The staff will also make sure that your baby is getting enough nutrition and gaining weight.
• The doctor may give medicine to ease the effects of withdrawal and make your baby more comfortable. The medicine may be given by mouth or through a blood vessel. Your baby may be given less of the medicine over time to allow the body to adjust.

• Follow your doctor's directions for caring for your baby. Call the doctor if you have questions or concerns.
• If your baby is upset, try soothing them in a darkened room.
• Try "kangaroo care." To do this, hold your baby upright, skin-to-skin on your chest, under a light blanket or loose shirt. All your baby needs to wear is a diaper.
• Swaddle your baby. Swaddling means wrapping them in a blanket. When you swaddle your baby:
  • Keep the blanket loose around the hips and legs. If the legs are wrapped tightly or straight, hip problems may develop.
  • Keep a close eye on your baby to make sure they don't get too warm.
• Never shake, slap, or hit your baby. This can cause serious or even deadly brain injuries. If you feel overwhelmed, maybe you could ask a family member or friend to give you a break.