Can Medical Negligence Lead to Maternal Injuries During Childbirth?

 Posted on February 26, 2021 in Medical Malpractice

Having a baby can be a beautiful, momentous, and life-changing experience. However, complications during childbirth can cause serious injuries to the mother and child. Depending on the circumstances, a maternal injury may lead to debilitating conditions and even death. The risk of injuries to the mother may increase when certain procedures such as a cesarean delivery (C-section) are performed. However, some maternal injuries during childbirth can be prevented if medical staff are able to address risk factors and provide intervention when signs or symptoms first present themselves during pregnancy or labor. Mothers who experience trauma when their child is born may be able to pursue compensation through a medical malpractice claim if negligence played a role in their injuries.

Prenatal Care Is Vital

Expectant mothers are advised to see their physician regularly while pregnant to monitor the baby’s development. If the safety of the mother or unborn child is in jeopardy, the medical staff should be ready to take necessary measures to ensure their health and safety. Doctors and nurses should take care to notice any signs of distress in the mother during routine visits or labor and delivery, which may include high blood pressure.

In many cases, maternal injuries can occur when a mother attempts to have a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) delivery. Scars from the previous C-section or other type of abdominal surgery tear during the process, which can lead to blood loss, infection, or other internal organ damage.

A few of the most common and potentially life-threatening injuries that a mother giving birth can suffer include:

• Excessive vaginal or perineal tearing
• Pre-eclampsia, which is characterized by high blood pressure and proteins in a mother’s urine.
• Placental abruption, which is premature separation of the placenta from the uterus
• Hemorrhaging or significant loss of blood
• Infections such as sepsis
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

A traumatizing childbirth experience for the mother can lead to emotional and psychological scars. This type of mental injury can hinder a mother from bonding with her newborn baby. The mother may also struggle with anxiety and depression for a long time after the birth.

Contact an Illinois Medical Malpractice Attorney

Complications during childbirth are more common than you might think. If preventable situations or conditions caused your maternal or birth injury, it is critical that you secure legal representation. Issa Law, LLC is experienced in obtaining compensation for injuries due to medical negligence. Our proficient Orland Park, IL personal injury lawyers can help you hold any negligent parties accountable. To learn more, call our office today at 708-966-2408 to arrange a free consultation.

Source:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=022500610K10