What Happens When a Child Sustains an Injury at Birth?

Welcoming a child into the world is one of life’s most unforgettable milestones. As the delivery day approaches, it’s natural for nerves and anticipation to take over. The thought of holding your newborn for the first time is what gets most parents through the stress.

But what if something goes wrong? What if, shortly after birth, a medical provider informs you that your child has suffered a birth injury? The emotional weight of that moment can be crushing.

In times like these, knowledge is power. Understanding the basics of birth injuries can give you a clearer picture of what happened—and what your next steps should be.

What Causes a Child Birth Injury?

Timing and medical judgment can make all the difference in labor and delivery. In some cases, a birth injury may occur because a healthcare provider failed to act appropriately, or made a critical error under pressure.

If negligence can be directly linked to your child’s injury, you may have grounds to file a medical malpractice claim. Holding a provider accountable not only offers a path to justice, but it can also help secure financial support for long-term care.

One of the most difficult aspects of birth injuries is that the full extent isn’t always known right away. Some injuries are obvious immediately after delivery. Others, especially those affecting the brain, might not appear until a child misses milestones.

Understanding what may have gone wrong during birth is the first step. Below are some common scenarios that can lead to preventable birth injuries.

Improper Vacuum Usage

In certain situations, a baby may have trouble moving through the birth canal. One common method of assistance involves the use of a vacuum extractor. This tool guides the baby through the final stages of delivery.

This device is typically attached to the baby’s head or shoulders and creates suction to help ease the baby out. When used correctly by trained nurses or doctors, it can be a safe and effective tool. But when the vacuum is improperly positioned or used with excessive force, the consequences can be serious.

Incorrect use of a vacuum extractor can result in significant harm to both the baby and the mother. From head trauma to internal injuries, the risks of misuse are real—and often preventable with proper care.

Improper Use of Forceps

When a baby is in an unfavorable position during delivery, doctors may turn to another tool to assist: forceps. These tong-like instruments are designed to gently guide the baby through the birth canal. It is most common in cases where labor has stalled.

When used with precision, forceps can help prevent oxygen deprivation and reduce the risk of fetal distress. However, this tool must be handled with extreme care and expertise.

Improper use of forceps can lead to serious complications. Excess pressure or misplacement can mean the infant may suffer head trauma or nerve damage, particularly in the neck or chest. That’s why skilled, attentive care during delivery is essential to protecting both mother and child.

Hypoxia

Hypoxia is a serious medical condition that arises when a baby’s brain lacks adequate oxygen. One of the most frequent causes during labor is a tangled umbilical cord, particularly when it wraps around the baby’s neck. Other contributing factors include issues with the placenta, such as infection or damage.

Fortunately, with proper monitoring, medical professionals can often detect signs of hypoxia. Early intervention can make all the difference in preventing lasting harm. But when doctors fail to act quickly or appropriately, the consequences can be devastating.

An inadequate response to hypoxia may lead to lifelong challenges for the child, including cognitive impairments and physical disabilities. In such cases, the medical team may be legally responsible for the damage. Prompt diagnosis and decisive action are essential to protect the baby’s brain and future well-being.

Cesarean Section Delay

In high-risk deliveries or when complications arise, an emergency C-section can be a life-saving measure. It’s often ordered to relieve fetal distress—a condition that occurs when a baby’s heart rate drops.

There are many situations where a C-section becomes medically necessary. The baby might be in the wrong position, fail to descend into the birth canal, or the mother may labor without adequate dilation. In these instances, a timely cesarean can prevent serious injury to both mother and child. But when doctors delay this decision, the risks escalate quickly.

Unfortunately, waiting too long to perform a C-section can lead to devastating consequences. The baby may suffer oxygen loss or trauma, and the mother may face increased complications during or after delivery.

Other forms of medical negligence during pregnancy and labor can also result in harm. These include:

• Failing to conduct appropriate prenatal testing
• Delays in administering labor-inducing medications
• Misdiagnosis or failure to treat infections, cord entrapment, placental abruption, or placenta previa
• Ignoring critical changes in the baby’s condition

Why Should You Take Action for Your Child’s Birth Injury?

Birth injuries can stem from a variety of preventable mistakes. When a doctor or healthcare provider fails to respond appropriately during labor and delivery, the consequences can be life-altering. In some cases, a simple lapse in judgment or delayed action can lead to long-term medical complications for the child.

The impact of such negligence can shape the entire future of a newborn’s care. Some children may face developmental delays, ongoing therapy needs, or permanent disabilities.

If your child has been diagnosed with a birth injury, it’s critical to act quickly. Demanding financial compensation can help cover immediate medical expenses and future care. In the most severe cases, damages can be hundreds of thousands—or more.

Don’t wait to take action. The moment you suspect a preventable injury occurred, seek legal guidance. Holding the responsible parties accountable is the first step toward protecting your child’s future.

Work With an Experienced Local Child Birth Injury Lawyer

Every state has its own rules for filing a medical malpractice claim, including those involving birth injuries. That’s why it’s important to speak with a local attorney who understands the laws.

If you suspect your child’s injury was the result of medical negligence, don’t wait. A birth injury lawyer can help you make sense of your legal options and guide you forward.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to meet with an experienced lawyer in your area!