A stillbirth occurs when a baby dies in the womb after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Most stillbirths occur before the mother goes into labor, but they can also occur during labor and delivery. Enduring an experience like this is one of the most painful things a family can go through.
At least one in 160 pregnancies are impacted by stillbirth every year in the United States. Some of those stillbirths are caused by medical negligence.
Here’s what you should know about stillbirth:
Common Causes of Stillbirth
Some of the most common causes of stillbirths include:
- Medical negligence
- Infections
- Birth defects
- Pregnancy complications
While there are many natural ways a baby can be stillborn, when it occurs because of medical negligence, the experience is that much more traumatic for all people involved.
Medical negligence can lead to stillbirths in several ways, such as:
Failure to Respond to Reduced Fetal Activity
This is perhaps the most common way that medical negligence leads to stillbirth. Reduced fetal activity is often connected to stillbirth, and reduced fetal movements require prompt attention from medical professionals.
Failure to Detect Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)
IUGR can occur as a result of a decline in the placenta, causing the baby to grow at a slower rate in the womb and become abnormally small. When IUGR is detected, the only way to address the condition is by inducing and delivering the baby. A plan should be made before delivery to consistently monitor, scan, and assess the baby’s growth.
Failure to Supervise the Baby in Utero in the Hospital
All babies should be monitored in utero, but the timing and frequency of the monitoring differ for every family. That is why it is critical for families to have plans in place with the delivering doctor regarding when and how often monitoring should take place.
Failure to Identify Placental Abruption
When the placenta detaches from the wall of the womb, placental abruption occurs. When this happens, the baby cannot receive the support required in the womb. This condition is often connected to pre-eclampsia and/or IUGR.
If Your Baby Is Stillborn Because of Medical Negligence, You Deserve Justice
Sadly, stillbirth as a result of medical negligence happens frequently. When medical professionals fail to live up to the expected standard of care, their patients suffer.
If your baby was stillborn or you endured some other birth injury due to medical negligence, we’re here to help right the wrongs you and your family have endured. Don’t hesitate to contact our office right away if you have any questions about how we may be able to help.