Childbirth can turn traumatic for both mother and baby if professionals do not follow the standard of care.
It is important to know your rights as a victim of medical malpractice due to birth injuries and that you may be entitled to compensation. Childbirth can be a beautiful experience when handled by competent medical professionals. However, the experience can turn traumatic for both mother and baby if professionals do not follow the standard of care.
When are Medical Professionals Responsible
While minor birth injuries are common, doctors and hospital staff should be aware of potential issues during childbirth and take the necessary precautions to prevent injuries. Failing to respond quickly in dangerous circumstances can be considered medical negligence. Other forms of negligence include failure to diagnose health conditions, misuse of birthing tools, failure to monitor the baby’s health following delivery, or using unnecessary force during childbirth. These complications can sometimes cause long-term or even permanent harm to babies or their mothers.
Types of Birth Injuries
Most birth injuries are minor and usually heal within a few weeks. Bruises and small cuts are common as they are the result of the birthing process. However, serious injuries can have devastating effects on the baby and mother. The most common types of serious injuries include:
- Brain injuries: Brain injuries can lead to developmental delays in many affected children. The most common brain injury is cerebral palsy, and it is a permanent condition that affects the baby’s cognitive functions and mobility. Brain injuries can occur due to lack of oxygen to the brain or physical head trauma.
- Shoulder dystocia: Injuries can occur to the baby’s neck and lead to loss of movement in the arms called Erb’s palsy. If not properly delivered, shoulder dystocia can lead to fractures in the baby’s shoulders, neck, and arms. Medical professionals should recognize the signs and take adequate steps to deliver the baby safely.
- Brachial plexus injury: This injury occurs when the nerves are damaged in the baby’s neck during delivery. As a result, there is a loss of sensation in the arms. Nerve damage occurs as the nerves are stretched, separated, or compressed in the spinal cord. In the most severe cases, these injuries are permanent.
Find the Right Attorney at The Snyder Law Group
Birth injuries due to medical malpractice can be shocking and life-altering. We here at Snyder Law Group have decades of experience with all types of malpractice cases. Reach out today to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.