Injury can happen during pregnancy, labor, during or after the birth takes place. Statistics show that out of every 1,000 births, about 30 children are born with a birth injury of some type.
Palm Desert Birth Injuries Lawyer of Coachella Valley
During the birthing process a medical error can occur. These include a twisted umbilical cord, fetal distress, failure to respond to bleeding, misuse of forceps, not ordering a cesarean section delivery when needed. A birth injury can lead to a lifetime of challenges for the parents and the child. If a birth trauma during delivery is not handled quickly, the infant can suffer permanent brain damage, Cerebral Palsy, or death.
Types of Birth Injuries
Cerebral Palsy – If the fetus does not receive adequate oxygen during the delivery, damage to the cerebrum can occur. The cerebrum controls motor skills, sensory functions and cognitive thought.
Can Cause:
- Learning disabilities
- Hearing and speaking issues
- Vision impairment
- Behavioral problems
- Seizures
Shoulder Dystocia – Results from improper use of forceps: baby’s head is delivered but shoulders are stuck behind mother’s pelvic bone
- Includes Erb’s Palsy
- Limited ability to move a hand or arm
- No feelings in hand or arm
- Severe cases – the entire arm is paralyzed, hand and fingers are limp
- Facial paralysis
- Unable to crawl without devices
Brain Injury – Improper use of forceps/extractor
- Forceps used at wrong stage of labor, can cause bruising, severe cranial damage and excessive blood loss
- A vacuum extractor brings the baby out of the birth canal by its head – used improperly, it causes severe swelling of the scalp, bruising and blood clots
- Lack of oxygen to the brain during delivery causes brain damage
What can cause a high-risk birth injury?
- Difficult and/or prolonged labor
- Pregnant mother using medication improperly
- Breech birth / large baby
- A delay in performing an emergency cesarean section
- Gestational Diabetes – A pregnant woman who has diabetes
Financial Burden
A child with a birth injury can cause an extreme financial burden on the family. If medical malpractice is the cause of a birth defect, the parents must be adequately compensated. The Statute of Limitations to file a lawsuit is between 1-15 years after the birth.
While nothing can compensate for the trauma of a child who has a birth defect or injury, an experienced Palm Springs birth injury attorney can help you receive the resources to provide comfort and monetary consideration for your child. Call the Law Offices of Dale S. Gribow at (760) 341-4411 for a free consultation.