What causes a birth injury?

Answer:

Birth injuries can occur for many reasons, but they generally fall into three categories: mother-related factors, baby-related factors, and medical negligence-related factors.

Mother-Related Factors

• Cephalopelvic disproportion: Baby’s head is too large to fit through the mother’s pelvis.
• Prolonged or difficult labor: Extended labor increases risks of oxygen deprivation and trauma.
• Excessive Pitocin: Overstimulation of contractions can stress the baby.
• Maternal health conditions: Issues such as diabetes or high blood pressure raise delivery risks.

Baby-Related Factors

• Abnormal positioning: Breech or transverse positions complicate safe delivery.
• Large baby (macrosomia): Higher risk of shoulder dystocia and nerve injury.
• Premature birth: Fragile organs and underdeveloped systems increase the likelihood of trauma.
• Umbilical cord complications: Compression, twisting, or prolapse can cut off the oxygen/blood supply.
• Placental abruption: Premature separation of the placenta reduces oxygen supply.

Medical Negligence-Related Factors

• Failure to perform a timely C-section: Delay when complications arise can result in preventable injury.
• Improper use of delivery instruments: Incorrect use of forceps or vacuum extractors, causing brain or nerve injuries.
• Failure to monitor fetal distress: Ignoring abnormal heart rate patterns or distress signals.
• Medication errors: Incorrect dosages of Pitocin or anesthesia complications.

While many deliveries are safe, birth injuries can leave lasting effects. If your child’s injury may have been preventable, it’s essential to explore both medical and legal options.

Concerned about negligence? Call the Dallas birth injury attorneys at Rasansky Law Firm for a free consultation at (214) 651-6100.