It is no secret that the birthing process is an extremely delicate procedure. Between the complexity of the process and the fragility of the newborn, birth injuries have become a common occurrence. According to Standford Medicine, some injuries have become more common than others.
The first step in holding a liable party accountable for a birth injury is identifying the injury. To help parents recognize the signs of common birth injuries, here is a list of them and how to identify them:
Brachial palsy
An injury to the nerves in a child that controls the movement and sensation in their arm. Weakness, paralysis, limited motion abilities, and lack of movement in the arm all can indicate this injury.
Bruising or forceps marks
Commonly the result of a difficult delivery process. Forceps marks can look like small dents in an infant’s skin, typically on the head or face. Bruising can also appear as a red or purple blotch on the skin.
Caput succedaneum
The swelling of the scalp is caused by pressure during the delivery. This soft and puffy area on the child’s head typically resolves within a few days after childbirth.
Cephalohematoma
This is collecting blood under the membrane that covers the skull bones. This looks like a firm lump on the side of the child’s head. It also does not cross any suture lines along the skull.
Facial paralysis
Birth trauma and Bell’s palsy can cause this paralysis. This injury commonly appears as drooping on one side of the child’s face, difficulty closing an eye, reduced movement on one half of their face, or an uneven smile.
Fractures
Handling an infant too roughly by hand or improper birthing tool use can both result in a broken bone in the child. The signs of these injuries often include swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the victim.
What comes after the injury?
If you suspect that your child has suffered a birth injury, make sure they get the proper medical attention to treat the injuries. Next, reach out to a lawyer for guidance through an injury claim to secure the necessary compensation to cover the costs of your child’s recovery.
There are many ways that a child can suffer an injury during birth. By keeping an eye out for the signs of an injury and knowing what to look for, you can help protect your child from these situations.