Birth Injuries

The birth of a child can be one of the most heartwarming experiences in a couple's life. Unfortunately, when improper prenatal care is given, or when mistakes take place during the birthing process, serious injuries can result.

There are numerous factors which can lead to an increased risk of birth injury. For example, a baby whose birth weight is over approximately nine pounds may be too large to safely pass. A premature baby, born before 37 weeks of gestation, may be more likely to be injured during the birthing process. The size and shape of a woman's uterus and pelvis may also render her more likely to experience birth problems. A “breech birth” may also occur, where a baby is delivered feet first rather than head first.

Some of the more common birth injuries are as follows:

• Scalp Swelling: The tissue on a baby's scalp is very soft and as the baby travels through the vagina, the tissue may become bruised and swell. Oftentimes, however, this problem resolves itself within a few days.
• Cephalohematoma: This is when the body bleeds between the bone and skin, and often presents itself as a raised lump on the baby's skull. If the bleeding is significant, jaundice may occur.
• Bruising: As babies' bodies are fragile, rough handling by a doctor or the instruments used in the birthing process may cause bruising of the baby's tissues.

Contact Us

This article is not intended to serve as, or as a replacement for, legal or medical advice. If you or your child has been injured during the birthing process, contact both a medical doctor and Cincinnati personal injury lawyer Shawn M. Stepleton at 513-321-7733.