If you or someone you know recently delivered, it is crucial to pay close attention to your baby’s condition. Some birth injuries aren’t spotted for years afterword, while others should be apparent right away.
According to national statistics, here are three of the most common birth injuries to keep an eye out for.
1. Bruising or forceps marks
When forceps are used for delivery, a baby’s head and face can get bruised in the process. Vacuum extraction can also result in bruising on the scalp or scalp lacerations. These injuries could lead to more severe cranial damage, even resulting in intellectual disabilities.
2. Brachial plexus palsy (Erb’s palsy)
Brachial palsy is a type of nerve damage, affecting the group of nerves connected to arm and hand movement. This is common in difficult delivery situations. Depending on the severity of nerve damage, a baby may lose mobility functions permanently or regain control within a couple of months.
3. Bone fractures
Because babies are so fragile, bone fractures can be made easily. Specifically, the clavicle or collarbone has the highest risk of injury. This injury will be easy to spot, as the baby will not be likely to move one or both of its arms.
What to do when something isn’t right
If you have noticed that something seems off with your baby’s development, consult with another medical professional as soon as possible for a diagnosis. If the medical practitioner discovers a birth injury, consult with a medical malpractice attorney for help.
An experienced lawyer can help you prove what happened and collect compensation for this injustice.
