Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome and Music Therapy in the NICU
Music therapy in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has been scientifically proven to improve fetal and neonatal outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that music can reduce stress, sedation and anxiety levels as well as boost appetite and help regulate a baby’s nervous system.
Music therapy is an integral part of an infant’s early development after birth, helping them develop their brains and social skills – particularly with their parents. Therefore, it should be part of every NICU’s routine to include music therapy into its sessions.
Neonatal abstinence syndrome is a serious condition in which premature infants experience withdrawal symptoms from drugs like cocaine or heroin after being exposed to them during the early stages of their lives. This occurs because their bodies cannot cope with the high levels of these substances present during pregnancy.
Nephrotic Syndrome (NAS) is a leading cause of infant and fetal morbidity and mortality in the United States, with rates increasing steadily over recent years. In 2012 alone, 21,732 infants were diagnosed with NAS – an alarming increase from previous years. Despite these increases, there remain many gaps in our knowledge of this condition and its management strategies.
In the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), many interventions are provided for these infants to support their neurodevelopment. One popular and well-recognized method is parent-infant bonding through infant directed singing; this involves parents expressing emotions through music in an effort to foster attachment and reduce distress for both parent and newborn. Furthermore, this technique has been proven to improve quality of life for both parties involved.
Studies have examined the impact of music therapy on fetal and neonatal outcomes. Unfortunately, due to their heterogeneity, it’s difficult to evaluate their significance. Therefore, systematic reviews are necessary in order to identify and assess any effects music may have on fetal or neonatal status.
Prenatal music therapy is an evidence-based practice that incorporates therapeutic and educational components to promote health promotion and prevention. It works in collaboration with obstetrics and midwifery to stabilize physiological and psychological conditions during pregnancy.
Research shows that pregnant women who use psychoactive drugs, smoke or drink alcohol put their babies at greater risk for neurodevelopmental disorders (NAS). Therefore, it’s essential for pregnant women to discuss all medications they are taking with their healthcare provider.
Prevention can be an effective strategy for reducing fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. For instance, taking antidepressants or benzodiazepines during pregnancy increases the risk of neonatal sudden infant death (NAS). Furthermore, women who smoke or drink alcohol during their pregnancies have an increased likelihood of having a baby with mental disability.
Therefore, it is imperative to address this issue during the early stages of pregnancy and ensure pregnant women are aware of the hazards of these substances during their pregnancies. Furthermore, they need to be educated on the significance of abstaining from smoking or drinking and receiving quality prenatal health care.