It is indeed a tragedy when the childbirth process causes an infant to suffer from injuries or conditions related to traumas that occurred during labor and birth. Some women seem to sail through the births of their children, yet other women undergo grueling labors that sap their strength and jeopardize the health and welfare of both the mother and fetus. Below are some challenges a mother and her obstetrician or midwife can face during the birthing process.
— A larger than normal size fetus (over 8 lbs., 13 ounces)
— Extended labor
— The baby’s position during childbirth, such as a breech birth
— The shape and size of the mother’s pelvis is inadequate for a vaginal birth
— Premature babies that are born before 37 weeks gestation, as their bones and bodies are injured more easily due to their fragility
All of the above can present serious problems that require immediate medical intervention. When that does not occur, or despite the efforts, some common birth injuries may result:
— Cephalohematomas. This occurs when there is bleeding under the cranial bones. It may not be apparent until several hours post-partum and appears like a lump on the infant’s head. Under most circumstances, the blood is reabsorbed by the body over the next few weeks and months. If there has been a lot of bleeding, jaundice can result from the breaking down of the red cells.
— Facial paralysis. Pressure applied to a baby’s face can tear the facial nerve and cause paralysis.
— Brachial palsy. If nerves to the hands and arms are damaged during childbirth, brachial palsy can result.
— Shoulder Dystocia. Damage to the brachial plexus injuries the infant’s shoulder, causing an inability to rotate and flex an arm.
At Garau Germano, PC, our attorneys are experienced with litigating medical malpractice cases that involve childbirth injuries. We will fight for our clients to receive fair and equitable settlements or judgments for the injuries caused by a negligent medical professional.