Childbirth can be a momentous event filled with joy and anticipation. However, for some families, this joy may be short-lived when medical errors lead to birth injuries.
If you are a parent who has experienced a birth injury, you may wonder what went wrong and who is responsible. What medical errors could have caused the birth injury, and how can you hold health care providers accountable?
Mismanagement of prolonged labor
Among the leading causes of birth injuries is prolonged labor or failure to progress. This occurs when labor lasts longer than expected. If a health care provider does not manage it properly, prolonged labor can lead to maternal exhaustion and fetal distress.
Failure to monitor fetal distress
Fetal distress or fetal compromise happens when the baby is not receiving adequate oxygen during labor. If left untreated, fetal distress can lead to birth asphyxia, cerebral palsy and other birth injuries.
Delayed or failed instrumental delivery
Meanwhile, health care providers perform instrumental deliveries, using instruments such as forceps or vacuum extractions, to assist with difficult births. When these deliveries are not performed correctly or in a timely manner, they can cause injuries to the head, face or body of the baby. In addition, delayed or failed instrumental deliveries can lead to prolonged labor.
Inadequate resuscitation
In cases where the baby is in distress or not breathing at birth, prompt and proper resuscitation is crucial. Insufficient resuscitation can lead to birth asphyxia, brain damage and other severe birth injuries.
Fighting for justice and fair compensation
Aside from the four medical errors that can lead to birth injuries, there are other mistakes that can occur during childbirth. Such errors can lead to severe and lifelong consequences that may affect your family for years. As you navigate the complex legal process, seeking legal counsel may help you better protect your rights and fight for justice and fair compensation.
