Medical care has made great strides over the last century when it comes to infant mortality rates. Far more children are born today who survived this process, and who have no serious injuries, when compared to statistics in the past.
Unfortunately, that does not mean that birth injuries no longer occur. Even though medical technology and knowledge has advanced, doctors and nurses are still human, and they make mistakes. These mistakes can lead to otherwise avoidable injuries. Let’s take a look at what some of the most common birth injuries are in the United States.
A fractured collarbone
Stanford Children’s Health notes that around 15 out of every 1,000 children who are born will have a fractured collarbone. This can happen during a difficult birth. Doctors may even use tools like forceps to assist with the birth. Any mistakes can cause serious damage because the baby’s body is so fragile at this age.
Cerebral palsy
When looking at motor disabilities, cerebral palsy is the most common one that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note in newborns. They say that it could happen to as many as four out of every 1,000 children who are born, although it could be as low as 1.5. In any case, cerebral palsy is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain, and it can cause both cognitive and physical disabilities that last for life.
Erb’s palsy
Similarly, Erb’s palsy can happen if a child is injured during the birth, and it may mean that their use of their hand, shoulder and arm is more limited than it should be. This happens to roughly 12,000 newborns each year.
Prolonged labor
Medical professionals are also supposed to make sure that the birth isn’t delayed, which can increase risk factors. Unfortunately, prolonged labor still happens to about 8% of women, leading to these delayed births. This can cause injuries to the child, along with significant complications for the mother.
What are your options?
If your child has been harmed during birth, be sure you know about the legal options you have to work through this process at such a difficult time.
