Pregnancy is a journey filled with questions, hope, and a focus on doing what’s best for your baby. If you’re taking Suboxone as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid use disorder (OUD), you’re already demonstrating immense courage and making a brave and important decision to prioritize both your health and your baby’s well-being. But if you’ve heard about neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS), you might feel a little worried or unsure about what it means for your baby after birth.
Here’s the truth: NAS can sound scarier than it actually is.
While it’s true that some babies born to mothers on Suboxone may experience mild NAS, the condition is treatable, temporary, and far less harmful than the risks of untreated opioid use disorder during pregnancy.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into what NAS is, how Suboxone exposure may affect your baby, and what to expect after delivery. Most importantly, we’ll provide tips and reassurance to help you feel confident and informed as you navigate this important chapter in your life.
What Is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)?
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a condition that occurs in newborns who were exposed to certain medications or substances during pregnancy, including opioids like buprenorphine, which is the main ingredient in Suboxone.
When babies are born, they no longer receive the medication through the placenta. As their body adjusts to functioning without it, they may experience mild withdrawal symptoms.
What Does NAS Look Like in Newborns?
The symptoms of NAS vary, but they’re generally mild to moderate for babies whose mothers were on Suboxone during pregnancy.
Common signs of NAS may include:
- Irritability or fussiness
- Trembling or jitteriness
- Difficulty feeding or sucking
- Sneezing or nasal stuffiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Mild diarrhea or loose stools
It’s important to note that these symptoms are temporary and, when treated properly, don’t cause long-term harm. With supportive care, most babies recover within a few days or weeks.
Is NAS Dangerous?
The thought of NAS might sound alarming, but it’s important to understand that NAS is treatable and that babies born with NAS are cared for routinely in hospitals across the country.
Example: Think of NAS like a baby having the flu—symptoms can be uncomfortable, but with the right support and treatment, they resolve quickly.
How Does Suboxone Play a Role in NAS?
If you’re taking Suboxone (a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone) during pregnancy, your baby may have a mild form of NAS. But there’s a key distinction to make: NAS from Suboxone is far less severe than withdrawal caused by ongoing opioid misuse or quitting opioids “cold turkey” during pregnancy.
Why Does Suboxone Cause NAS?
Suboxone contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist. While buprenorphine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms in the mother, it can cross the placenta and affect the baby.
When the baby is born, it no longer receives the medication, which may lead to mild withdrawal symptoms (NAS).
The Benefits of Staying on Suboxone
Here’s the critical piece: The benefits of staying on Suboxone far outweigh the risks of NAS.
- Without Suboxone, opioid withdrawal during pregnancy can cause serious complications like miscarriage, preterm labor, and fetal distress.
- Suboxone helps stabilize the mother’s health, ensuring consistent oxygen and nutrients for the baby.
Think of it this way: Suboxone creates a controlled, predictable environment for your baby to grow in, even if it results in mild NAS after birth.
How Do You Treat NAS?
If your baby is born with NAS, rest assured that they’ll receive specialized care to ensure they’re safe and comfortable. Most hospitals follow clear protocols for managing NAS, especially for babies born to mothers on MAT.
Common Treatments for NAS
- Comforting Techniques: You can manage most NAS symptoms with simple methods, such as swaddling, skin-to-skin contact, and minimizing noise and light in the baby’s environment.
- Feeding Support: Babies with NAS may struggle to latch or suck, so nurses and lactation consultants will work with you to ensure your baby is feeding well.
- Medication (If Needed): In rare cases of severe NAS, babies may be given small doses of medication (such as morphine or buprenorphine) to ease symptoms.
Example: Imagine a fussy baby struggling to sleep. A nurse may swaddle the baby tightly, dim the lights, and gently rock it until it calms down. These simple steps often work wonders for NAS symptoms.
How Long Does NAS Last?
Most NAS symptoms resolve within a few days to a week, though some babies may need extra care for up to two weeks. Long-term effects from NAS are rare, especially when the baby receives proper care after birth.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Severe NAS
If you notice any of these symptoms or feel your baby’s condition is worsening, don’t hesitate to act.
Here’s what you can do.
1. Contact Your Baby’s Healthcare Provider Immediately
Your pediatrician or neonatologist is your first line of support. They can assess your baby’s symptoms and determine whether additional care or interventions are needed.
- Be as specific as possible when describing your baby’s symptoms (e.g., “My baby hasn’t been able to sleep for more than 15 minutes at a time” or “They’re trembling constantly and can’t latch during feedings”).
2. Head to the Hospital if Symptoms Escalate
If your baby is showing signs of severe distress, such as difficulty breathing, extreme agitation, or dehydration, seek immediate medical attention at the hospital.
- Many hospitals have specialized neonatal units (NICUs) where babies with severe NAS can receive round-the-clock monitoring and care.
- Even if it feels intimidating, know that the medical team is there to support both you and your baby.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Advocate for Your Baby
As a parent, you know your baby best. If you feel their symptoms are being overlooked or not taken seriously, it’s okay to speak up and ask for a second opinion.
How Severe NAS Is Treated
In cases of severe NAS, your baby’s medical team may use a combination of comfort measures and, if necessary, medications to ease symptoms:
Non-Medication Approaches:
- Swaddling: Wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket to help them feel secure.
- Low-Stimulation Environment: Keeping the room quiet, dimly lit, and free of loud noises or sudden movements to reduce agitation.
- Frequent, Small Feedings: Offering smaller amounts of milk or formula more frequently to help with feeding difficulties.
Medication If Needed:
For more severe symptoms, like extreme irritability or difficulty eating, your baby’s doctor may prescribe small doses of morphine or buprenorphine. These medications are given under strict medical supervision and are gradually tapered off as your baby’s symptoms improve.
What to Remember as a Parent
If your baby’s NAS feels severe, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or blame yourself—but remember, you’re doing everything you can to support your baby’s health by continuing treatment with Suboxone during pregnancy. Severe cases of NAS are rare, and even when they happen, they are treatable with the right care.
Tip: Be kind to yourself. Caring for a baby with NAS can be emotionally and physically draining. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support system—whether that’s family, friends, or your healthcare team.
Tips for Pregnant Mothers on Suboxone
Navigating pregnancy while on Suboxone can feel overwhelming at times, but there are steps you can take to prepare for your baby’s arrival and minimize risks:
1. Stick to Your Treatment Plan
The most important thing you can do for your baby is to continue your Suboxone treatment as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping MAT during pregnancy can cause withdrawal symptoms that are far more harmful than NAS. By staying on your treatment plan, you can feel secure and confident in providing the best care for your baby.
2. Build a Delivery Plan with Your Doctor
Work with your OB-GYN and MAT provider to create a plan for labor and delivery. This plan can include:
- Ensuring the hospital is prepared to monitor and care for a baby with NAS.
- Discussing pain management options during labor, especially if you’re on MAT.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask questions—your medical team is there to support you, not judge you.
3. Plan for Extra Support After Birth
Babies with NAS may need a bit more attention in their first days of life. Consider asking a trusted friend or family member to help you during this time.
- If breastfeeding, stay hydrated and nourished to help with milk production.
- Stay patient with yourself—newborns are challenging for any parent, and having NAS in the mix may require a bit more time and care.
4. Educate Yourself About NAS
Learning about NAS ahead of time can help you feel more confident and prepared. Understanding what to expect can also reduce fear or guilt, so you can focus on bonding with your baby instead of worrying.
Why Continuing Suboxone Is the Right Choice
If you’re on Suboxone and pregnant, you’re already making a powerful choice to prioritize your health and your baby’s well-being. While the possibility of NAS may seem intimidating, it’s important to remember that it’s a manageable condition with a positive outlook.
By staying on MAT, you’re protecting your baby from the far more serious risks of withdrawal and relapse, and you’re giving them the stable environment they need to thrive.
How QuickMD Can Support You
At QuickMD, we understand that managing pregnancy and recovery can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to provide compassionate, confidential care every step of the way.
Why Choose QuickMD?
- Convenient Care: Get same-day telemedicine appointments from the comfort of your home.
- Expert Providers: Our licensed doctors specialize in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and can guide you through pregnancy on Suboxone.
- Affordable Treatment: Consultations are just $99, and prescriptions are sent directly to your pharmacy.
Suboxone, Pregnancy, and NAS: Final Thoughts
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) is a manageable condition, and with the right care, your baby can thrive. By staying on Suboxone during pregnancy, you’re making a responsible choice that protects both you and your baby from the risks of untreated opioid use disorder.
Remember, recovery is a journey, and every step you take is an act of love and courage. With the proper support and a solid plan, you can confidently navigate pregnancy and recovery, giving your baby the healthiest start possible.
Schedule an appointment today to get personalized support for your pregnancy and recovery.
