When it comes to birth injuries, parents need to be aware that there are certain risk factors that can make the odds of an injury more likely. This does not mean that an injury is guaranteed or that there is nothing doctors can do, but simply that certain children are at higher risk. Below are a few common examples:
— Babies who are born prematurely. Though the range can vary, this usually refers to a baby who is born before it reaches the 37th week. Injuries are more likely since the body is more fragile.
— Babies who are overweight. A child is a higher risk if he or she is over eight pounds and 13 ounces.
— Cephalopelvic disproportion. This means that the mother has a pelvis shape –and/or size– that is not ideal for having a child. In some cases, a vaginal birth may not be the best option.
— Labor that goes on for an excessive amount of time. Again, times vary with every birth.
— Dystocia. Essentially, though this can involve a lot of factors, it refers to a difficult childbirth process. Labor is never easy, but this makes it harder than it needs to be.
— Abnormal presentation of the child during the birthing process. For example, the baby is born bottom or feet first instead of the head. This is typically called a breech delivery, and it can be rather problematic.
If your child was injured while being born in New Jersey and you think that negligence on the part of the medical staff played into it, make sure you know your rights.
Source: Standford Children’s Hospital, “What causes birth injury?,” accessed April 21, 2016