Cuddle Programs: Helping Infants Experiencing Withdrawal

Did you know that babies can go through drug withdrawal? Babies who were born to mothers who used drugs during pregnancy can experience neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). As you'd expect when withdrawing from opioids (such as heroin), these babies experience a number of issues including:

  • Crying at a high pitch
  • Muscle stiffness and tremors
  • Trouble breastfeeding or drinking formula
  • Anxiety about feeding
  • Digestive and skin issues

As you can imagine, nurses have their hands full caring for these babies in their early days of life. 

Here's where we come in.

Many neonatal units welcome visitors to hold and comfort the babies with NAS. Babies not only benefit from this extra care in the moments they are being held—medical professionals have found that babies in these "cuddle programs" are more likely to have long-lasting health. In fact, in one program, babies' stay in the hospital was cut in half!

With the rise of opioid usage in our country, there is an increased need for cuddle program volunteers. Check with your local hospital to see if you can fill this important need! 

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