If your baby suffers harm because of a preventable issue, liability falls on the doctor or medical professional responsible for your care. Of course, there are maternal and genetic issues that can cause a birth injury, but there are several instances involving negligence.
As a mother or expecting mother, you should recognize the potential issues that can lead to birth injury most often. If you know where negligence exists, you can take the necessary legal action to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
Failure to Monitor
Your doctor must work to ensure your pregnancy goes as smoothly as possible. During the entire pregnancy, he or she must check to ensure you and your baby are healthy, while also working to identify any distress your baby may experience. If the doctor fails to monitor your pregnancy properly, they may miss vital signs of a problem arising.
Prolonged Labor
Labor that goes beyond 20 hours in time is considered prolonged, and doctors must take action before the baby suffers harm. In a prolonged labor, the stress can lead to significant issues, including lack of oxygen, high blood pressure, and more.
Mistakes During labor and Delivery
Any mistake made during the labor and delivery can be devastating, resulting in severe harm to you or your baby. For instance, if the doctor fails to identify macrosomia (a baby larger than normal) and proceeds with a vaginal birth, it can result in the baby getting stuck behind the birth canal and the pressure may lead to shoulder dystocia.
Similarly, while not used as often, birth aiding tools that are used incorrectly can lead to injuries. For instance, if a doctor uses forceps and applies too much pressure to your baby’s head, this can lead to deformities.
If you or your baby suffers harm because of a birth injury, our team at Berthold Law Firm, PLLC is here for you. Our Charleston birth injury attorneys stand ready to champion your rights to pursue compensation and justice.
Call our firm today at (304) 605-2040.