When a doctor makes a mistake, it can result in a serious health problem or even death.

Birth injuries: How do they occur and should you sue?

On Behalf of | Mar 16, 2017 | Uncategorized |

For many parents, it is too difficult to think about the possibility that their child will suffer birth injuries. And when injuries do occur, the trauma is heart-wrenching for everyone involved.

Unfortunately, medical errors occur all too often during the pregnancy, labor and delivery that result in injury to the baby or mother. When dealing with birth injury, or trauma, it is important to understand common causes – and when injuries could have been prevented.

Below are several factors that can contribute to birth injuries:

  • Baby is born breach, or not head-first into birth canal
  • Umbilical cord is wrapped around a baby’s neck
  • Baby is born premature
  • The size or shape of mother’s pelvis makes vaginal birth difficult
  • Labor is especially difficult or takes a long time
  • Baby does not receive enough oxygen
  • An emergency Caesarian birth (C-section) is necessary
  • A C-section is needed but fails to happen
  • Devices like vacuum or forceps are used improperly
  • Baby or mother receive incorrect medication or dosage

Although birth injuries can occur for many reasons, not every situation results from negligence by doctors, the hospital or other medical staff. If you file a medical malpractice claim, you must prove negligence or mistakes occurred and that it directly contributed to the birth injury. If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, treatments and other damages.

Medical malpractice cases can be complex, and can benefit greatly from skilled legal representation. If you believe you have a malpractice claim for birth-related trauma, contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your options.