Many things could go wrong during the childbirth process. Some of these birth injuries could result in long-term health impacts or even death. Mothers who have been injured during childbirth may be entitled to financial compensation when the doctor has been negligent.
Uterine Rupture
A uterine rupture is when the trauma to the uterus or the size of the baby causes it to strain or tear. Depending on the severity of the tear, this could cause hemorrhaging that could result in death. Even when the mother survives, common long-term side effects include urological problems. A uterine rupture would most likely leave the mother unable to have more children in the future. This injury is preventable because doctors could notice the signs of stress before or during the delivery.
Vaginal Tears
When the baby’s head is too large or is in breech, it could tear the skin or muscles surrounding the vagina. While most mothers will experience tearing to some degree, severe tears will require intensive medical intervention. This could include surgical procedures. There are long-term side effects, including incontinence, and pain during intercourse.
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a high blood pressure disorder that can occur during pregnancy. The disorder can cause organ damage, seizures, stroke, or permanent brain injury. If not promptly identified and treated, the condition could place the mother and child’s life in danger. Doctors can help manage the symptoms of preeclampsia by prescribing medications or bed rest. However, the medical team may need to deliver the baby before term when the danger to the mother is too great.
Placental Abruption
This happens when the placenta separates from the uterus before birth. This could cause severe and uncontrollable bleeding for the mother. Doctors must monitor the mother closely in the last trimester for any signs of this extremely dangerous condition. If physicians spot warning factors, they often perform an emergency c-section because the condition could place both the mother and child at risk.
Physicians should be aware of the mother’s risk factors before the delivery. They should also be vigilant as the pregnancy progresses and during the childbirth process because various conditions could develop that cause maternal injuries or injuries to the fetus. Injured mothers often consult with medical negligence lawyers to discuss their legal options. An injured mother’s course of action may include a medical malpractice lawsuit against the physician.
