What are the most common birth injuries?

On Behalf of | Nov 7, 2022 | Birth Injuries, Blog

These days, giving birth is safer than it has ever been in the past. On top of that, the country’s statistics for birth and labor show that it is a relatively safe thing for most mothers to go through.

Though a minority of babies end up in harm’s way, this does not make it impossible. Unfortunately, some of the things that may go wrong involve birth injuries.

Risk factors for birth injuries

The National Library of Medicine talks about some of the most common birth injuries. These are injuries that typically occur during the labor and birthing process, sometimes because of things outside of anyone’s control and sometimes due to negligent or accidental mistakes on the part of medical staff.

Some of the most common risk factors for birth injuries can include a baby’s weight, with large babies being more susceptible. Dystocia, or difficult labor, can result in complications. Premature births cause numerous health issues at times. Prolonged labor, maternal health issues and abnormal birthing presentation can also contribute.

Common birth injuries

Common injuries include bruising or forcep marks, brachial palsy, facial paralysis, fractures, caput succedaneum, cephalohematoma and subconjunctival hemorrhage.

Many of these injuries occur due to certain tools used to aid in labor, such as forcep clamps or vacuum extraction. They cause swelling, bleeding and other issues. Many of these injuries will also heal on their own over a period of weeks or months following the birth.

However, in some cases, more extensive or immediate medical care is needed. This treatment can mean the difference between mild issues or potential lifelong problems.

Archives

FindLaw Network