SCIENCE
IN PLAIN ENGLISH
We collect the latest data from scientists who study the impacts of prenatal substance exposure. Below you will find easy to read explanations, along with links to the published articles.
Search Topics Below:
NOTE: We recognize that for some women, using methadone or buprenorphine during pregnancy may be the best option for managing opioid use disorder. At the same time, we acknowledge that exposing a fetus to any opioid, including methadone and buprenorphine, carries risks. The information presented on this website is intended to provide insight and does not seek to support or discourage the use of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Our goal is to empower individuals with knowledge so they can make informed decisions in consultation with their healthcare providers.
Developmental Differences Require Developmentally Appropriate Interventions
How do I help my substance-exposed child? What types of interventions will support their development? What are some evidence-based interventions to prevent and mitigate the effects of prenatal substance exposure?
Casey Family Programs has answers to these questions. Whether they are still in diapers or have a driver’s license, programs have been developed to help these kids thrive.
How Methadone Changes DNA
Advances in science allow researchers to understand how prenatal exposures affect health and disease outcomes later in life. Studying DNA from the umbilical cord blood of babies revealed differences in those whose mothers used methadone for their opioid use disorder.
This pilot study found that there are changes in cells involving multiple areas of body function. Keep reading to learn which systems are affected.
Do opioid-exposed children have the same pain sensitivity as their non-exposed peers?
Pain impacts the life of any parent whose kiddo suffers the bumps, scratches, and other boo-boos of childhood. Do opioid-exposed children have the same pain sensitivity as their non-exposed peers?
The reachers conducting this study were interested in this question, as well as how adults with prenatal opioid exposure perceive pain. It was the treatment of pain, after all, that started our country’s opioid epidemic. If opioid-exposed children experience stronger levels of pain, will they turn to opioids for relief?
Detox During Pregnancy Benefits the Fetus
A report that begins with the following line, “A professional organization does not recommend opioid detoxification in pregnancy.” but starts its Conclusion with this statement, “Detoxifying from opioids in pregnancy does not appear to harm the fetus,” may leave one scratching their head.
Let’s break it down into plain English…
Prenatal Opioid Exposure and Risk of Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Children
A large study from South Korea was published last week with headlines like this;
Opioids in Pregnancy ‘Not Linked’ to High Risk of Child Disorders
Prenatal Opioid Exposure Not Tied to Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Offspring
Could this be true? An exploration of the data is necessary to confirm or deny this broad-reaching statement.