The birth of a child is supposed to be one of life's most joyous experiences. When injuries occur during childbirth, however, a happy occasion can turn suddenly into a tragedy.

Birth injury is damage sustained by an infant during the birthing process. A difficult delivery—when the birth canal is too small, the baby is too large, or the fetus is in a breech position in the uterus, for example—increases the risk of birth injury. Other risk factors for injury include premature birth and prolonged labor.

Birth injuries can range from mild to severe. The following are some of the most common types of birth injury.

• Bruising/swelling/discoloration. Babies may show bruising on the face or head simply as a result of the trauma of delivery. The use of forceps can also leave temporary marks or bruises on the face and head. Delivery by vacuum extraction may cause swelling and bruising of the soft tissues of the head.  
• Nerve injury. Facial paralysis, which has been linked to the use of forceps during delivery, can occur when a facial nerve is bruised or torn during delivery. Erb’s palsy, also known as brachial plexus injury, is another type of nerve damage that can occur during birth. Less serious nerve injuries usually improve on their own in a few weeks, but if the nerve was torn, surgery may be required to repair the damage.
• Fractures. The collarbone is the most common site of fracture during labor and delivery. Fractures typically occur when the baby’s shoulder is being removed from the birth canal, or when the baby is in a breech position.
• Brain Injury. Heavy blood loss or a twisted umbilical cord can cause insufficient oxygen delivery to the newborn’s brain. Prolonged oxygen deprivation can cause brain damage, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism.

Your child—precious, tiny, vulnerable. You would do anything in your power to protect your infant from harm. But if your baby is injured during birth, one of the happiest times in your life may quickly become filled with broken dreams, worry, and mounting medical bills.

Our attorneys can’t take away your heartache, but they can help you collect the money to pay for medical expenses you’ve incurred and provide the specialized care your child may need in the future.

If your child sustained injuries during the birth process, contact our office immediately. Failure to take prompt action could jeopardize a potential claim.

Call toll-free 1-866-778-5500 today for your free legal consultation.