No. Babies born to mothers who have problems with drugs aren’t born addicted, but the babies can be born with drugs in their system. This can cause them a great deal of discomfort. Once the supply of drugs (delivered through the mother’s umbilical cord) goes away, babies can experience painful withdrawal symptoms and other health problems.

In newborns, this type of withdrawal is called neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). NAS can be caused by exposure to many different drugs. It’s especially challenging for babies born to mothers who use opioids, including prescription pain relievers or heroin.

How many babies are born with NAS?

Unfortunately, the number of babies born with NAS has increased in recent decades because opioid misuse has increased. Between 1999 and 2013, the number of cases of NAS tripled; in 2013, it affected six out of every 1,000 newborns.

What does NAS look like?

A baby’s withdrawal symptoms can include tremors, diarrhea, fever, irritability, seizures, and difficulty breathing and feeding. Babies with NAS usually require an extended hospital stay to help them get better.

Can pregnant women with an opioid addiction get treated?

Pregnant women with an opioid addiction can get help for their drug problem in ways that are safe for their unborn baby. For instance, buprenorphine and methadone, two types of medicine used to treat opioid addiction, have been shown to be safe and effective treatments in this situation. Not only will treatment help the mother get healthy, it’s also better for the baby.

How are babies with NAS treated?

Babies with NAS can be given medication to relieve their discomfort. It’s important to remember that babies are not addicted. Part of the definition of being addicted means that a person seeks out drugs and continues to use them despite negative consequences. Babies, however, rely completely on caring hospital staff for relief.

How can NAS be prevented?

NAS can be prevented if women discuss any medicine or illegal drug use with their doctors before they get pregnant. Doctors can help guide women to treatment, which can also protect their babies. If a pregnant woman needs treatment for pain, her doctor can advise her on how to safely take medicines.



Source: NIH