Birth injuries are devastating events that can leave families with lifelong challenges. These conditions can range from minor cuts, broken bones, and bruises to more severe medical problems, such as brain or nerve damage.
While several factors can contribute to birth injuries, they are often caused by medical negligence before, during, and after labor and delivery. Some of the top causes of birth injuries include oxygen deprivation, prolonged birth, use of excessive force or dangerous tools, and undiagnosed maternal infections and complications.
Oxygen Deprivation
During childbirth, a baby’s oxygen supply can be reduced or cut off, which can lead to brain damage, cerebral palsy, and other lifelong challenges. This condition can occur due to several reasons, including a delay in delivery, an umbilical cord that wraps around the baby’s neck, or a placental abruption.
A doctor’s failure to monitor a baby’s vital signs can also lead to prolonged oxygen deprivation and brain damage. Medical professionals have a responsibility to ensure that a child is getting enough oxygen and need to jump into action if they detect any fetal distress. If a doctor’s failure to monitor leads to a birth injury, the family may be eligible for legal action.
Prolonged Birth
Prolonged birth or difficult labor can cause significant stress to the baby and mother, leading to birth injuries. When a baby is in distress during labor, doctors must act quickly to minimize any potential harm, such as ordering an emergency C-section.
If labor takes too long or there is a delay in delivery, the baby may experience oxygen deprivation, leading to brain damage. A difficult delivery may also cause injuries such as nerve damage, fractures, or even death.
Maternal Infections and Complications
Maternal infections and complications during pregnancy or childbirth can also lead to birth injuries. Some infections, such as Group B Streptococcus (GBS), can be passed from mother to baby during delivery, causing serious conditions such as meningitis, pneumonia, or sepsis. Many of these infections are hospital-acquired.
In some cases, maternal complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or placental abruption can also cause harm to the baby. Doctors must monitor for and diagnose these conditions during prenatal care to minimize any potential harm to the baby or the mother.
Use of Dangerous Birthing Tools
Doctors may use birthing tools, such as forceps or vacuums, to assist with delivery. While these tools may be helpful in some situations, they can also cause serious injuries to the baby if not used correctly.
Forceps and vacuums can cause injuries such as skull fractures, brain damage, and nerve damage. Moreover, the improper use of these tools can also cause injuries to the mother, such as tearing, hemorrhaging, or infection.
Has Your Child Suffered a Birth Injury?
If your child has suffered a birth injury due to medical negligence, your family deserves justice. In these situations, you may be eligible for a lawsuit against the at-fault medical provider. These claims help families recover the compensation they need to provide care for their child’s lifelong needs, such as medical care, disability accommodations, and rehabilitation.
An Augusta birth injury attorney can help fight for your right to recovery and hold the at-fault medical professional accountable. As soon as possible following your child’s diagnosis, schedule a free consultation to discuss your next steps with a lawyer.
