From the day a mother learns that she is carrying a precious baby in her belly, she feels a love that is undeniable and unconditional. She starts imagining the day that she gets to hold that sweet little being in her arms for the very first time. Sadly, not every mother gets to experience the joy of holding a perfect, healthy little baby after giving birth. Birth injuries and defects occur far too often and can be prevented in some cases. If you or someone you know has had a baby that was born with injuries or defects, you may be entitled to financial compensation.
What causes birth injuries?
Birth injuries are oftentimes caused by the negligence of the medical team caring for the mother during pregnancy, labor and delivery. If the medical team fails to provide a mother with the required standard of care, the baby and/or the mother can be injured, or even die. So, what medical mistakes commonly result in birth injuries?
- Insufficient prenatal care and monitoring
- The medical team fails to communicate with each other and the mother
- Failed response to fetal distress
- Improper use of forceps
- Failed response to excessive bleeding after birth
What types of injuries are sustained?
The type of injuries sustained by the infant vary by the type of negligence endured during the pregnancy and delivery. The most common injuries include:
- Shoulder dystocia – injuries to the baby's arms
- Brain injury
- Broken bones
- Facial paralysis
- Cerebral palsy
- Seizure disorders
- Developmental delays
What do you do if your baby is born with injuries or defects?
You will have to contact a personal injury lawyer soon after the baby is born. Before you do that, take a moment to grieve. You will experience a rush of emotions that can be unbearable, so allow yourself the time you need to collect yourself and deal with what has just happened.
Keep a journal and all medical documents that you have received. Your lawyer will need to know the line of events that led up to the injuries. Do your best to write down all of the prenatal care that was provided as well as each action the medical staff took while you were delivering your baby.
Discuss the options that you have with your lawyer. He or she has the experience to know what course of action to take to make the hospital and staff responsible for your baby's injuries to the full extent. A lawsuit cannot reverse the damage that has been done, but it can provide you the financial resources to care for your baby as best you can. (For more information, contact Parker & Frey)
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