Does prenatal exposure to opioids, specifically Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), affect the visual functioning of school children? Yes, it does. And whether mom was treated with methadone or buprenorphine makes a difference.

More and more babies are being born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)—withdrawal symptoms from opioids used during pregnancy. Doctors in Ohio wanted to find better ways to help these babies feel better and leave the hospital sooner.

They already knew that non-medication care like skin-to-skin time, swaddling, quiet rooms, and safe breastfeeding helps. But they wondered if the type of formula given to babies who aren’t breastfed also makes a difference.

Doctors are now learning that holding babies close—especially skin-to-skin—is a powerful way to help babies with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Doctors and nurses in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) are being encouraged to teach families about babywearing and skin-to-skin care as first steps before using medicine. Read the full breakdown here.

Diaper rash can become a part of any infant’s early days. When opioid withdrawal causes diarrhea and increased movement, it’s a recipe for friction that often leads to skin breakdown and infection.

Using this evidence-backed skin care protocol can keep baby’s bottom healthy and smooth.

“I was in tears this morning. I walked in the kitchen and I was just thinking to myself – because I had just handed my baby off to one of the cuddlers, and one of the ICS was holding one of the other ones. And I was just thinking like, wow, what a blessing to be able to know like I handed my baby off and to know like he’s being so loved right now by somebody that wants to care for him, that wants to hold him, that wants to be there.”