An official State of Texas website.
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a group of symptoms that can occur in newborns exposed to certain substances, including opioids, during pregnancy.
Things to Remember
- Pregnant women in Texas who seek, or are referred for, and would benefit from substance use services are within the federal required priority admissions to treatment facilities receiving state funds (eCFR, Title 45: Public Welfare, Part 96, 96.131)
- The treatment for pregnant women with opioid use disorder usually includes medications, such as methadone or buprenorphine, rather than withdrawal management. This is because pregnant women with opioid use who suddenly stop are at increased risk for relapse, overdose, and fetal death. Pregnant women with opioid use disorder should seek care immediately.
June is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Awareness Month in Texas
In recognition of June as NAS Awareness Month, HHS continues to:
- Increase awareness about NAS to pregnant women regarding the dangers of using opioids during pregnancy.
- Inform others about the availability of resources for mothers-to-be and new mothers with a substance use disorder
- Provide a list of recommended materials to address NAS:
- "Advisory: Evidence-Based, Whole Person Care of Pregnant People Who Have Opioid Use Disorder".
- “Healthy Pregnancy Healthy Baby” fact sheets.
- “Medications to Treat Opioid Use During Pregnancy” fact sheet (PDF).
- “Are You Taking Medicine for Opioid Use Disorder and Are Pregnant or Thinking about Having a Baby?” fact sheet (PDF).
- “Texas Child Protection Law Bench” book.
- National Center on Substance Abuse and Child Welfare publications.
How do I get NAS Services?
There are several ways to find NAS Services. Contact the substance use treatment program directly, your local Outreach, Screening, Assessment, Referral (OSAR) Service, or your Local Mental or Local Behavioral Health Authority.
- Find State Funded NAS Programs in Texas
- Find your local OSAR provider
- Find your Local Mental Health Authority or Local Behavioral Health Authority
The Mommies Toolkit
- Improving Outcomes for Families Impacted by Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (PDF)
- Mommies Toolkit Online Modules