Sean Maloney, M.A.,LMHC

Characteristics of Drug Exposed Infants Factors Influencing Effects of Prenatal Exposure Interventions

Higher risk for: Prematurity Low Birth Weight Small Head Circumference

Irritability Tremors Difficult to console Increased muscle tone Decreased muscle tone

Difficulty regulating state/rapid state changes Unresponsiveness Prolonged crying, high-pitched crying Easily overstimulated Feeding problems

Sleeping problems Gaze aversion Excessive yawning and/or sneezing Difficulty regulating body temperature. Relatively rare.

Drugs of Choice Purity - Concentration - Toxins - Method of delivery

When taken in pregnancy How long taken - Mother’s tolerance - General physical health

Fetal levels - Does it cross the placental barrier? Fetal metabolism

Babies communicate with us What precedes crying episodes? Try one thing at a time

Support child. Help them feel physically secure. Hold firmly Use a snugli, front pack, etc. Swaddle

Avoid: Loud or sudden noises Perfumes/ Strong fragrances Bright lights Temperature fluctuations

Try: - “White Noise” - Swing - Gentle touch - Introduce only one stimulus at a time

Try smaller amounts of food more often Be careful not to overfeed Use pacifier instead of bottle for comforting

Rule out delays Early intervention makes a difference! PT/OT for muscle tone issues Speech and language therapy starting with feeding issues. Social interaction

Neurological issues

Discuss with your physician.