Content Overview
Predisposal Birth Rates Rise
In 2000, 29 newborn babies were hospitalized in the state of Kentucky because they were born with prescription drug addiction. If a woman uses drugs during pregnancy, the drugs will be passed in utero to the unborn child. That child, in turn, will be born addicted to the substances the mother was taking. After birth, the newborn goes into withdrawal, referred to as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome. The newborn will experience the same pain and discomfort that any adult going through withdrawals would.
Call now to ask questions about treatment for yourself or a loved one. Our help is free and confidential. Call (888) 906-0952 or submit a question.
Dramatic Increase Nationwide
Between 2000 and 2013, an addicted baby was born every 25 minutes in the United States. In 2014, over 1000 babies were born addicted in Kentucky. This problem isn’t localized in Kentucky, although it is statistically the most dramatic increase.
In 2012, 22,000 babies were born addicted to a substance nationwide. Though Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) has been a problem for some time, doctors attribute the recent and dramatic increase to the increase in issuing and abuse of prescription drugs, especially Opioids.
The Journal of the American Medical Association released a financial study of healthcare costs for newborns; it has been found that the total cost in 2000 was $190 million, compared to $1.5 billion in 2012. On average, babies with NAS spend 16 days in the hospital and cost the government-funded Medicaid programs around $53,400 per infant.
Potential Loss of Custody
A woman who gives birth to a baby diagnosed with NAS can face serious consequences, although criminal charges are unlikely in the state of Kentucky. Child Protective Services is required to step in on behalf of the newborn and can result in the custody of the baby being taken away from the mother. Some women must go through treatment to keep their babies, but others lose custody altogether.
If you or someone you know is pregnant and struggling with prescription drug addiction, please call A Better Today Recovery Services at 888-906-0952. Our addiction specialists can answer questions you might have and get you connected with a treatment facility.
Are you looking for drug and alcohol treatment? Give us a call at (888) 906-0952
Related Educational Content and Guides
Will My Baby be Taken Away From Me at The Hospital? [2021 Guide]
Pregnant and Addicted to Opioids
Can Drugs Get Into My Breast Milk
Medically Reviewed By:
Dr. Patricia Sullivan MD MPH on 05/17/2022
Educational Resources
Explore Your Options for Rehab With a Free Consultation
If you’re ready to change your life and explore the options for addiction treatment, we are ready to help! Confidentially talk to someone about your situation today.
Will AHCCCS Cover Alcohol Rehab?
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Children & Substance Abuse: Teaching Destructive Coping Mechanisms
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Number of Babies Born with Prescription Drug Addiction
Reading Time: 5 minutes
Insanity: Addiction Desperation in Hurricane Season
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Wellness in the Workplace: Physical and Mental Productivity Offenders
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Common Health Problems Associated with Substance Abuse: STDs
Reading Time: 6 minutes
What to Expect During Your Loved One’s Treatment
Reading Time: 6 minutes
How Do I Know if I Need a Support Group for Addiction?
Reading Time: 6 minutes
Staying Sober on the 4th of July [Guide 2022]
Reading Time: 8 minutes
60 Days Drug & Alcohol Treatment- A Parent’s Guide
Reading Time: 8 minutes