Will DCS Take My Baby if They’re Born Exposed to Opioids?
For some expectant mothers, fear and uncertainty cloud that newborn joy—especially when dealing with substance use during pregnancy. One of the most pressing concerns is whether the Department of Child Safety (DCS) will take their baby if they’re born exposed to substances like opioids. It’s a difficult question, but it’s important to understand your rights and the options available to you and what steps you can take to ensure your child receives the best possible care.
Understanding Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)
Babies born to mothers who have used opioids during pregnancy can develop Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). This condition occurs because the baby is suddenly no longer receiving the substance they became accustomed to in the womb, leading to withdrawal symptoms. Signs of NAS can include excessive crying, tremors, sleep difficulties, and feeding challenges, all of which require attentive care.
Fortunately, with proper neonatal withdrawal treatment (utilizing Eat, Sleep, and Console), infants can go on to live healthy, happy lives. Our team at Jacob’s Hope provides specialized treatment for the baby and a supportive environment for parents helping them navigate the symptoms their baby is experiencing. Parents can room-in with their baby in private suites.
Will DCS Automatically Take My Baby?
NO! The fear of losing custody of your child is overwhelming. It’s important to know that while the Department of Child Safety has a duty to ensure every child is safe, they do not automatically take babies from mothers struggling with substance use. The primary goal of DCS is to keep families together whenever it is safe to do so. But we are here to help navigate that process. Often expectant mothers are hesitant to get the help they need because of the fear of being reported and automatically losing custody of their baby. That’s not true! Let us help you navigate DCS.
Our goal is to keep families together. At Jacob’s Hope, we work alongside mothers to ensure that both the newborn and family receive the support they need. Our work starts prenatally, helping expectant mothers with a substance use disorder get the support and services they need for a happy, healthy, and safe pregnancy! Our goal is to help expectant mothers (and their partners) work through their DCS case so that they may successfully parent their baby.
- DCS Readiness Class– Learn about the DCS process and what to expect.
- Know your Rights! Our Social Service Liaison empowers mothers to know their rights so that they may properly advocate for themselves and their baby.
- Hope Notes Class– Learn about NAS and infant care (including safe sleep, car seat safety, specialty consoling techniques, CPR, and more!) to show DCS your commitment to parenting.
- One-on-One Advocate– Work alongside our Liaison for each element of your DCS case.
- Wrap Around Support– We help get you OB Care, substance use treatment, mental health treatment, food, housing, peer support, counseling and anything else you need to have a safe and healthy pregnancy, further reflecting you’re ready to parent.
A Path Forward for You and Your Baby
The journey may seem overwhelming, but you are not alone. By seeking help, staying informed, and showing your commitment to your health, you can take steps to keep your family together. Refer online to schedule a tour and meet with our team to get started.
Raising Awareness and Offering Hope
If you are concerned about what will happen after your baby is born, know that there is help available. Understanding neonatal abstinence syndrome and its treatment options can make a significant difference in your baby’s life. Our team is here to provide the care and support your newborn needs, and we are committed to helping you navigate this challenging time. Meet with our team to learn how we can help you navigate prenatal opioid exposure.
Contact Us for Support
If you’re an expectant mother dealing with substance use, reach out to Jacob’s Hope today. We provide compassionate care for newborns experiencing NAS and offer support to help you keep your family together. You are not alone—together, we can give you and your baby the healthy start you both deserve.
