Types of Birth Injuries That are Often Caused by Medical Malpractice

Examples of Medical Malpractice

Often many people are involved in the birth of a child, and things can and do go wrong. Some examples of medical malpractice that could lead to the injury of a newborn include:

  • Failure to diagnose medical conditions with the mother.
  • Improper use of forceps or other delivery equipment.
  • Improper administration of medications (allergies/too much/too little).
  • Failure to perform a Caesarean section (C-section) when needed.
  • Unresolved umbilical cord issues.
  • Failure to respond to fetal distress or respond correctly to a high-risk, complicated delivery.

These are only some things that could cause injury to the new baby.

Birth Injuries Caused by Medical Malpractice

Sadly, there are many types of birth injuries caused by medical malpractice. Some are minor, and others are more severe. Most, however, could be avoided with proper care. Some examples of the most common birth injuries due to subpar medical care are:

  • Brain damage.
  • Fractures and broken bones.
  • Hypoxia.
  • Brachial plexus.
  • Cephalohematoma.
  • Cerebral palsy.
  • Head trauma.
  • Lack of oxygen.
  • Hypoxic-Ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).
  • Paralysis.

Along with injuries to the unborn child, the mother may also experience injuries such as:

  • Ruptured uterus.
  • Prolapsed uterus.
  • Post-natal post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Severe vaginal tears.
  • Post-partum hemorrhage (PPH).

How to Respond to Medical Malpractice

Along with the emotional burden of an injury after the birth of your child, you may experience financial hardships such as high medical bills, the cost of additional treatments or equipment, and lost wages.

You may be eligible for damages to offset these expenses. You don’t have to go through it alone. Contact Baron, Herskowitz, and Cohen to discuss your case and find out how we can help.