To fully understand the scope and impact of the opioid crisis on newborn babies in the United States, we here at Maddie’s Place have done a lot of reading and research. The articles below come from some of the leading advocates and researchers on this subject.
Articles and Research
Reconceptualizing non-pharmacologic approaches to Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) and Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS): A theoretical and evidence–based approach. Part II: The clinical application of nonpharmacologic care for NAS/NOWS
Establishment of Lily’s Place (our inspiration)
This article details the establishment of Lily’s Place: a non-profit in Huntington, West Virginia. This is the publication that sparked national awareness of the safety and efficacy of treating NAS babies somewhere other than the NICU. Lily’s Place is an inspiration to us!
Developmental Consequences of Fetal Exposure to Drugs: What We Know and What We Still Must Learn
For far too long, academics and politicians, in general, have been under-informed of the life-long effects that substance-exposed babies face. Some continue to hold that “there are no known long-term effects of prenatal substance use.” Those of us parenting these children know a far different reality. This is an extensive literature review detailing the effects that have been studied related to each substance. Bear in mind that, in the US, polysubstance abuse is the norm: therefore, it is difficult to isolate the effects of just one substance over the myriad of combinations babies are exposed to.
Developmental and behavioral consequences of prenatal methamphetamine exposure
In 2014, researchers competed the Infant Development, Environment and Lifestyle (IDEAL) study. This was the first large-scale study looking at long-term effects of prenatal Methamphetamine exposure. The article here is a review of the IDEAL results, not the initial results publication. I’ve linked this one as it provides explanation and discussion.
The importance of early bonding on the long-term mental health and resilience of children
This article is a good overview of the importance of the early moments of our lives. The field of Infant Mental Health has been explored and researched for many years, but is unfortunately not well known or discussed among academics and policy-makers.
Opioid Overdose And Misuse: Examining Data for Spokane County, Washington
Interested in local data? Here is the most recent Spokane Regional Health District release.
Epigenetic Effects Of Early Postnatal Contact
Epigenetics is an emerging study of the way environment and experience changes our genetic profile. These changes are then passed on to our children. Fascinating science!
Websites
Lily’s Place
Lily’s Place is a Neonatal Abstinence Center in Huntington, West Virginia; one of the epicenters of the opiate crisis. This is the model Maddie’s Place is following.
NTI UPSTREAM
Dr Ira Chasnoff has been a pioneer in research and a fierce advocate for children affected by substance abuse. A former Pediatrician, he founded the Children’s Research Triangle in Chicago, IL. He recently retired and is devoting his time and energy to educating the nation about the unique challenges and needs of exposed children, through NTI Upstream. This man is one of the very few non-adoptive parents we have heard speak who truly understands the challenges of parenting children with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome.
Books And Media
The Mystery of Risk By: Dr Ira Chasnoff
Excellent book explaining clearly the many factors at play, and what can and can’t be predicted about the effects of prenatal exposure. The source list alone will lead you to a wealth of information.
Trying Differently Rather Than Harder: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders By: Diana Malbin
Short, succinct book written by a birth mom in recovery, whose daughter was affected by her alcoholism. Probably the most helpful “non-medical” book I’ve seen for parents raising children with FAS/FAE.
The Impact of Prenatal Trauma on Children with Stacey Gagnon
In this podcast, RN and foster/adoptive mom Stacey Gagnon clearly describes the nature of prenatal and perinatal trauma and its effects, both short- and long-term. Important to be aware and mindful of when we are involved in any way with the care of substance exposed newborns.
Ghosts in the Nursery: A Psychoanalytic Approach to the Problems of Impaired Infant-Mother Relationships.
This is the title of a research paper by Selma Freiberg, a pioneer in the field of Infant Mental Health.