Giving birth is a major medical procedure with a bevy of possible outcomes.
Injuries can occur to the mother or baby without anyone to blame. However, some injuries are the result of medical negligence.
Common birth injuries to the mother
Some common examples of birth injuries suffered by the mother include:
- Complication from anesthesia. After administering epidurals and other common anesthesia during labor, doctors and nurses must monitor vitals closely. Failure to do so could result in severe injury or even death.
- Injuries incurred during a Caesarean section. Scalpel injuries, such as accidental cutting of the mother’s bladder or the baby, can be severe and result in significant scar tissue.
- Episiotomy complications. Episiotomies are sometimes necessary to help the baby exit. However, improper suturing or failure to explain aftercare can result in infection or nerve damage.
Other common injuries include broken bones, excessive bruising, and lacerations.
Common birth injuries to the baby
Injuries to babies can be minor, resulting in a brief recovery time or severe, sometimes resulting in life-long consequences. Common examples include:
- Brain damage
- Cerebral palsy
- Bone fractures
- Head trauma
- Brachial plexus injury
Some causes include improperly using forceps, failing to recognize umbilical cord problems, failing to perform a timely C-section, and improperly administering medications.
The financial, physical, and psychological repercussions of birth injuries can be devastating. Often parents have no choice but to try to recover compensation through a medical malpractice lawsuit. However, these cases can be challenging to prove and are often best left to legal professionals with access to knowledgeable medical experts.