According to the WHO, about 830 women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth every day. In addition, an estimated 15 million infants are born each year with a birth injury.
A birth injury can be known as any damage occurring to a baby during the birthing process. It can include physical injuries, such as broken bones or cuts, neurological damage, and lasting developmental problems.
Birth injuries are relatively common, affecting between 2 and 3 per 1,000 births in the United States. While some birth injuries are minor and will heal on their own, others can be more serious and lead to long-term health problems. In rare cases, birth injuries can even be life-threatening.
Read on to learn about different birth injuries and everything you need to know about them.
Skull Fractures
Skull fractures are one of the most common types of birth injuries. They can occur when the baby’s head is forced through the birth canal in an abnormal position or when too much force is used during delivery.
Most skull fractures will heal on their own within a few weeks. However, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage in some cases. Medical negligence can often lead to skull fractures during birth. Unfortunately, suppose you or your child has suffered from this type of injury. In that case, you may be able to take legal action against the responsible party. You can consult a birth injury lawyer to learn more about your legal rights and options.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are another common type of birth injury. They can be caused by excessive force during delivery and improper use of delivery instruments, such as forceps or vacuum extractors. Spinal cord injuries can lead to various symptoms, including paralysis, loss of sensation, and bowel or bladder control problems. In severe cases, the injury can be fatal.
There is no cure for a spinal cord injury, but there are treatments that can help improve the symptoms. Physical therapy, for example, can help improve mobility, and surgery can sometimes be used to stabilize the spine.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that birth injuries can cause. It affects body movement and muscle coordination. Symptoms of cerebral palsy can vary but may include muscle weakness, stiffness, and problems with balance and coordination. The severity of the symptoms can range from mild to severe.
There is no cure for cerebral palsy, but there are treatments that can help improve the symptoms. Physical therapy, for example, can Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. and coordination. Unfortunately, in some cases, surgery may also be necessary.
Facial Paralysis
Facial paralysis is another type of birth injury that can occur. It is caused by damage to the facial nerve, which controls the muscles of the face. Symptoms of facial paralysis include drooping of the eyelid, drooling, and problems with facial expressions. In severe cases, the paralysis can be complete. Facial paralysis can often be treated with surgery. In some cases, the paralysis may improve on its own over time.
Erb’s Palsy
Erb’s palsy is a type of birth injury that affects the nerves in the arm. It is caused by damage to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that run from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Symptoms of Erb’s palsy include weakness or paralysis of the affected arm. In severe cases, the paralysis can be complete. Most cases of Erb’s palsy will improve on their own within a few months. However, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage in some cases.
Oxygen Deprivation
Oxygen deprivation is another type of birth injury. It can occur when the baby’s brain doesn’t get enough oxygen during delivery. Symptoms of oxygen deprivation include seizures, developmental delays, and cerebral palsy. In severe cases, the injury can be fatal.
There is no cure for oxygen deprivation, but there are treatments that can help improve the symptoms. Physical therapy, for example, can help improve motor skills and coordination. However, in some cases, surgery may also be necessary.
Cephalohematoma
A cephalohematoma is a type of birth injury that affects the skull. It is caused by bleeding under the periosteum, the tough, fibrous membrane covering the bones. Symptoms of a cephalohematoma include a lump on the head, bruising, and swelling. The injury is usually not serious and will resolve within a few weeks.
Cerebral Hemorrhage
A cerebral hemorrhage is a type of birth injury that affects the brain. It is caused by bleeding in the brain. Symptoms of a cerebral hemorrhage include seizures, developmental delays, and cerebral palsy. In severe cases, the injury can be fatal.
There is no cure for a cerebral hemorrhage, but there are treatments that can help improve the symptoms. Physical therapy, for example, can help improve motor skills and coordination. Unfortunately, in some cases, surgery may also be necessary.
Conclusion
Birth injuries are a serious concern for all parents. But, if your child has suffered from a birth injury, it’s essential to know that you’re not alone. Thousands of families are affected by these injuries every year. There are resources and support available to help you through this difficult time. And, if your injury was caused by medical negligence, you may be able to take legal action.
