Birth injury is a type of physical injury that occurs during the birthing process.
While some birth injuries are minor and will heal on their own, others can cause long-term damage or even be fatal.
Here is a detailed explanation of What Is the Most Common Type of Birth Injury?
Table of Contents
Brachial plexus palsy
Brachial plexus palsy is one of the most common birth injuries, accounting for about 2% of all such injuries. It occurs when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck during delivery, causing the nerves in the brachial plexus (the network of nerves that runs from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand) to stretch or tear. This can result in paralysis or weakness of the affected arm.
Fractured bones
Fractured bones are another common type of birth injury, accounting for about 1% of all such injuries. They usually occur when the baby is forced through a small opening, such as the pelvic bone. If you notice that you should sue for birth injury, the process will help you get compensated. You will also be able to get your life back on track.
Skull fractures
With skull fractures, the bone is broken, but the skin is not. They account for about 1% of all birth injuries and usually occur when the baby is delivered by forceps or a vacuum extractor. This condition can cause bleeding and long-term damage if not treated immediately.
Cerebral palsy
As a parent, if you think that your child might have cerebral palsy, it is important to seek medical help immediately. This condition is caused by damage to the brain during pregnancy, childbirth, or early childhood and can lead to paralysis, seizures, and mental retardation. It is important to remember that not all children with cerebral palsy will have all of these symptoms.
Erb’s palsy
Erb’s palsy is a type of brachial plexus palsy that occurs when the baby’s neck is stretched during delivery, causing the nerves in the brachial plexus to stretch or tear. This can result in paralysis or weakness of the affected arm.
Klumpke’s palsy
This condition is similar to Erb’s palsy, but it occurs when the nerves in the brachial plexus are damaged below the clavicle (collarbone). This can cause paralysis or weakness of the arm and hand. When you notice your child has this condition, it is important to seek medical help immediately.
Spinal cord injury
A spinal cord injury can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or early childhood. It is a serious condition that can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation, and even death. The causes of spinal cord injury include birth defects, infections, trauma, and tumors.
Meconium aspiration syndrome
Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is a condition that can occur when the baby inhales meconium (the infant’s first stool) during delivery. This can cause the baby to develop pneumonia or other respiratory problems. MAS is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated immediately.
Fetal distress
Fetal distress is a condition that can occur during pregnancy or childbirth when the baby is not getting enough oxygen. This can cause the baby to be born with brain damage, cerebral palsy, or other problems.
Wrapping up
A birth injury can seriously affect both the mother and child. If you think your child might be suffering from a birth injury, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Additionally, you may want to consider filing a lawsuit to get compensated for your damages.
