Whether you are pregnant or have a family member who is, you may be aware the congenital defects and cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects more than 200,000 people in the United States every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 85 to 90 percent of cerebral palsy cases are congenital. This defect often occurs in early brain development, and causes stiff muscles, poor balance and coordination and uncontrollable movement. Although there are several different causes of cerebral palsy, babies who suffer from a lack of oxygen during the birthing process may be at a higher risk for developing the life-long disorder.
Preventable birth injuries can occur when negligent physicians fail to use the right type of equipment during the delivery process, or fail to take care of the mother while the baby is in utero. Any of the following actions may lead to birth injury and subsequent damage during delivery:
- Failing to know when the baby is in distress by properly monitoring the baby’s heart rate and vital signs
- Failing to detect prolapsed umbilical cord problems, which may cut off oxygen to the baby
- Failing to perform an emergency c-section when needed
- Improper use of vacuum extraction or forceps during delivery
- Twisting or pulling the infant during the delivery process
- Administering the wrong medication or an improper medication dose to the mother before or during the delivery
Any of these incidents can have an adverse effect on the baby, which may lead to cerebral palsy.
This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.