Birth Injury

The birth of a child is a momentous occasion, and with the advent of modern medicine, the prevention of disease and the percentage of infant survival rates are very good. Occasionally, however, a baby suffers an injury during birth.

Common birth injuries:

Shoulder dystocia
Cerebral Palsy
Ataxic Cerebral Palsy
Athetoid Cerebral Palsy
Erbs Palsy

Birth injury causes: Many factors can contribute to a birth injury. A difficult birth has a much higher risk for complications, and a medical error can create or worsen a birth injury.

Difficult birth examples:

Large babies (babies weighing more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces)
Premature babies (babies born early or before term)
Mother’s pelvis size/shape is unsuitable for vaginal birth (medically called “Cephalopelvic Disproportion”), common among mothers with narrow hips
Prolonged or difficult labor
Abnormal birthing position, such as breech delivery when the baby’s feet or buttocks are positioned to exit the birth canal first

Medical negligence examples:

Failing to anticipate birth complications
Failing to respond appropriately to bleeding
Failing to observe or respond to umbilical cord entrapment around the baby’s neck
Failing to respond to fetal distress (including irregularities in the baby’s heartbeat)
Delay in ordering a cesarean section when medically necessary
Misuse of forceps or a vacuum extractor
Inappropriate use of certain medications

Where To Turn For Help

Having a child who has endured a birth injury can be a devastating experience. If you believe your child might have been a victim of a birth injury due to medical negligence, please contact us.

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