Birth injuries are painful experiences that no parent wants to go through. Understanding the causes can help everyone involved in the birthing process take preventive measures. Here are the four most common causes of birth injuries.
1. Improper Use of Medical Equipment
Medical instruments such as forceps and vacuum extractors can be life-saving during complicated deliveries. However, improper use can lead to significant birth injuries, such as skull fractures and nerve damage. Ensuring that medical professionals are adequately trained to use these tools is paramount to preventing such injuries.
2. Prolonged or Difficult Labor
A prolonged or difficult labor, known medically as dystocia, is another common cause of birth injuries. Factors like the baby's size, the mother's pelvis size, and the baby's position can make labor difficult. In these cases, oxygen deprivation can occur, leading to conditions like cerebral palsy.
3. Premature Birth
Premature babies, those born before 37 weeks of gestation, are at a higher risk of birth injuries due to their underdeveloped bodies. Their bones are more fragile, and their skin is thinner, making them more susceptible to injuries during delivery.
4. Medical Negligence
Regrettably, medical negligence is also a significant contributor to birth injuries. This can manifest as a failure to monitor the baby's vital signs during labor, failure to perform a necessary cesarean section in time, or improper response to unexpected complications.
In conclusion, understanding these common causes of birth injuries can help healthcare providers and expectant parents work together to minimize the risk. At the same time, it underscores the necessity of quality maternity care and the crucial role it plays in protecting the health and safety of both mother and child.
Our team is here to help you when you need it most, always going to work through the legal process to seek maximum compensation. If you and your family have been impacted by negligence causing a severe birth injury, we’ll be there for you.