The birth of a child should be one of life’s most joyful moments. But when a medical mistake during labor or delivery causes harm, families are often left reeling, wondering what went wrong and whether it could have been prevented.
In this post, we break down the top five preventable causes of birth injuries, how they happen, and what families can do if they suspect medical negligence played a role.
Why Are Some Birth Injuries Preventable?
While not every birth complication is avoidable, many birth injuries occur due to mistakes made by healthcare providers. These preventable errors often result from failure to follow standard medical practices.
When this happens, it may be considered medical malpractice.
1. Failure to Monitor Fetal Distress
What it is: During labor, doctors must monitor the baby’s heart rate for signs of oxygen deprivation or distress.
How it causes injury: If distress is missed or ignored, it can lead to brain damage, cerebral palsy, or even stillbirth.
Red flags:
- No reaction to abnormal fetal heart rate
- Delayed emergency C-section
- Improper use of monitoring equipment
2. Improper Use of Forceps or Vacuum Extractors
What it is: Forceps or vacuum tools may be used to assist delivery, but only under specific conditions and with caution.
How it causes injury: Incorrect technique can result in skull fractures, facial paralysis, or brain bleeds.
Red flags:
- Multiple failed vacuum attempts
- Bruising, swelling, or unusual behavior in the newborn
- Use of tools during known fetal distress
3. Mismanagement of Shoulder Dystocia
What it is: A delivery complication where the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck during birth.
How it causes injury: Improper response can lead to nerve damage, Erb’s palsy, or brain injury.
Red flags:
- Excessive pulling on the baby’s head
- Failure to perform standard emergency maneuvers
- Delay in switching to a C-section
4. Untreated Maternal Infections
What it is: Infections such as Group B Strep, UTIs, or chorioamnionitis that go untreated during pregnancy or labor.
How it causes injury: Infections can pass to the baby, causing sepsis, meningitis, or lifelong health issues.
Red flags:
- No GBS screening or antibiotic treatment
- Fever during labor not addressed
- Delayed delivery despite infection signs
5. Delayed Emergency C-Section
What it is: When a baby or mother is in distress and a C-section is needed immediately—but the provider waits too long.
How it causes injury: Delay can result in oxygen deprivation, cerebral palsy, or death.
Red flags:
- Prolonged labor without progress
- Signs of fetal distress ignored
- Poor communication or slow hospital response
What to Do If You Suspect a Preventable Birth Injury
If your child has been diagnosed with a condition like cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, or suffered trauma at birth, and you believe something went wrong, you may have legal options.
Next Steps:
- Request a full copy of your and your baby’s medical records
- Document what you were told during labor and after delivery
- Contact a birth injury lawyer for a free consultation
➡️ Schedule Your Free Case Review
🎧 Podcast Episode: EPISODE 3 – Common Causes of Preventable Birth Injuries
This episode dives deeper into these issues, with real examples and legal insight.
🎙️Related Blog Posts
- How to Spot the Early Signs of Birth Injuries in Newborns
- Newborns in Crisis: Dealing with Birth Trauma
- What to Expect During a Birth Injury Lawsuit: A Parent’s Guide
Final Thoughts
Not every birth injury is preventable—but many are. If you feel your family didn’t receive proper care, you deserve answers. Our law firm is here to help guide you through the next steps.
Need help now? Contact us for a free consultation.