The birth of a child is an exciting time for your family. It should be a joyous occasion for you and your loved ones, but the excitement and joy may disappear when you learn that your child suffered injuries during the birth process. While some birth injuries are relatively minor, it is possible your child suffered injuries that will have a permanent effect on his or her life.
Many things can happen during delivery, and you depend on your doctor and nurses to make sound decisions regarding your care and the well-being of your baby. Just one mistake can be devastating, leaving your family with unexpected medical needs and expenses.
Types of birth injuries
There are many reasons why birth injuries happen. Some birth injuries are the result of uncontrollable and unpredictable factors, such as premature birth, large baby size and the baby’s position during birth.
However, there are some types of birth injuries that are completely preventable and the result of the negligent or reckless actions of a care provider. Some of the most common preventable birth injuries include the following:
- Facial paralysis, which can occur when there is too much pressure placed on the baby’s face during birth, such as by the use of forceps
- Fractures, which can happen when the doctor uses unnecessary or improperly applied interventions or force during the birth process
- Brachial palsy, a condition that happens when there is temporary or permanent injury to a specific nerve (the brachial plexus) controlling the hands and arm
If you believe that your doctor used unnecessary interventions, failed to intervene in an appropriate amount of time or took actions that ultimately resulted in the injury of your child, there are options available to your family. It could be possible to hold the doctor or healthcare provider through a medical malpractice civil claim.
Securing the help your family deserves
If your family is dealing with the physical and financial ramifications of a child with serious medical needs as the result of a birth injury, you do not have to face it alone. You may be able to seek financial compensation through a medical malpractice claim, which could help you address the financial needs of your family and allow you to get the care your child needs.
Birth injuries are devastating, but your family can seek immediate help regarding your rights and the legal options available to you.
