As expectant mothers navigate prenatal care, they entrust their healthcare providers to guide them through the journey. But what happens when those providers fail to warn them of pregnancy risks? If you have suffered a pregnancy-related injury, how can you seek justice if a provider did not inform you of the risks of being pregnant?
The legal duty to inform
In Oregon, healthcare providers have a legal duty to inform patients of potential pregnancy risks and complications. This duty is rooted in the principle of informed consent, which requires providers to disclose all relevant information about a patient’s condition, treatment options and potential risks.
What does this mean for pregnant patients?
When a provider fails to warn a patient of pregnancy risks, it can have devastating consequences. For example, a patient may not be aware of the risks associated with a particular treatment, which can lead to birth injuries or complications.
Some common examples of failure to inform include:
- Not warning patients of the risks associated with certain medications during pregnancy, such as antidepressants or blood thinners
- Failing to inform patients of the risks of premature birth or low birth weight
- Not disclosing the risks of certain medical conditions, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia
Further, the failure to inform a patient of pregnancy risks can lead to legal liability. Patients who have been harmed due to a provider’s failure to inform may be able to bring a claim for medical malpractice.
Taking the first step toward healing and recovery
The failure to inform patients of pregnancy risks can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only individual lives but also the broader healthcare landscape. As you pursue justice and the compensation you deserve, seeking legal counsel may empower you to take the first step toward healing and recovery. In addition, an advocate may help you better manage the complexities of the law as you aim to protect your rights.