C-Sections and the Risk of Birth Injuries

Cesarean section deliveries are very common in the United States. According to the CDC, nearly 32% of all deliveries in 2016 were made via Cesarean and they can occur for a very wide range of reasons. Some mothers choose to give birth with a C-section, but in many cases, they’re the result of problems like complications during delivery or maternal health conditions.

Regardless of why a mother has a Cesarean section, it’s important to remember that it is still a form of surgery which means it inherently comes with potential risks and complications. Even if you don’t plan to have a C-section delivery, it’s still important to be aware of the risks that come along with the procedure because you never know if one might become necessary as labor and delivery progress. Cesarean sections can be ordered in cases of things like prolonged labor or problems with the umbilical cord or placenta, both of which can occur even in pregnancies that were otherwise healthy.

For the mother, having a C-section can come with the risk of infections, either to the incision area or internally. Anesthesia complications, a heightened risk of blood clots, and the potential for injuries to other nearby organs are all other possible complications a mother might experience. Having a Cesarean section delivery can also increase the risk for postpartum hemorrhage.

C-section deliveries can also pose some risks for the child. Babies born via C-section are more likely to develop a respiratory condition known as transient tachypnea, which results in very rapid, labored breathing during the first days of life. Transient tachypnea is usually something babies are able to fully recover from, although they might need to be given extra oxygen in the hospital for a few days. It’s also possible that a child could sustain lacerations during the procedure itself.

While having a C-section can put babies at risk for certain complications, there are also times when a doctor failing to order one in time can also put babies at risk for birth injuries. If a child goes into distress, it’s important to take appropriate steps to make sure the child is delivered as quickly and safely as possible. For example, if a Cesarean isn’t ordered in time for a child who is experiencing a lack of oxygen, the longer the child is deprived of oxygen, the more likely it becomes that the child could develop brain injuries, damage to organs, seizure disorders, and more.

If you had a C-section delivery and your child developed injuries around the time of birth, it’s important to find out what the legal options are in your situation. Birth trauma can have very long lasting effects and talking to a birth trauma lawyer will be able to help you figure out what steps to take next. At Goodwin & Scieszka, we have attorneys who are experienced in working with parents whose children sustained birth injuries. Contact us today to find out how we can help you.