NAS refers to the symptoms a newborn baby experiences from in utero exposure to substances or medication, typically an opioid.
Every 25 minutes a baby is born with NAS. Texas’ NAS Medicaid birth rates have increased every year since 2013.
With increased attention on the opioid epidemic, it is important to remember most pregnant women do not intend to become dependent on substances. It is our fight to end this stigma.
Subsequently, opioid use among pregnant women has also increased during the opioid epidemic. There has been a dramatic increase in maternal opioid use and NAS —Pregnant women using opioids should not discontinue use because of the risk of maternal relapse, overdose, withdrawals, and fetal demise. In 1998, the National Institutes of Health consensus panel recommended methadone for medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in pregnant women dependent on opioids. It is still considered the gold standard of care. Tapering (reducing the dosage) of MAT during pregnancy is not recommended.
In recognition of June as NAS Awareness Month, the team at SMH hopes to accelerate efforts to:
- increase awareness about NAS to pregnant women concerning the dangers of using opioids during pregnancy
- increase education and reduce stigma in seeking help for pregnant women using opioids that they should not discontinue opioid use due to the risk of maternal relapse, overdose, withdrawals and fetal demise
- provide community resources available to pregnant women in Texas
The awareness initiative is promoted by Texas Health and Human Services with the aim to spotlight the rising number of babies born in Texas with NAS and the substantially increased risk of maternal mortality due to opioid overdose just after birth.
Each year SMH supports many expectant mothers through residential treatment and community-based intervention and care for affected individuals. Through our programming, we support the health of the mother and the ability for healthy babies to be born and thrive.
