Birth injuries are more common than many people realize. While some of these can be minor, others can have long-term implications on the health and wellbeing of an infant. Common birth injuries include fractures, cephalohematomas, brachial plexus palsy, skull fractures and intracranial hemorrhages that occur during the birthing process.
Some of these are caused by medical negligence or improper medical care, such as a lack of oxygen deprivation or if medical instruments used during delivery cause injury. These types of birth injuries may lead to developmental delays or even severe physical disabilities for a newborn. It’s important for medical staff to understand the risks associated with childbirth in order to ensure a healthy outcome for mother and baby.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disorder that can cause physical disabilities by impairing the ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It often appears in early childhood, and although it cannot be cured, there are treatment plans available to lessen symptoms. In some cases, this means providing access to physical and occupational therapy, as well as assistive technology like wheelchairs or speech-generating devices.
Mental health services are also a key part of managing Cerebral Palsy as these can help individuals cope with their disability and gain confidence in their ability to take an active role in life. Awareness of Cerebral Palsy is increasing thanks to grassroots advocacy groups such as Little People of America working together to promote inclusion and equal rights for people living with this disability.
Erb’s Palsy
Erb’s Palsy is a disorder affecting the movement of the arm caused by an injury to the brachial plexus, a bundle of nerves running from a person’s neck to their arm. This type of paralysis can have serious repercussions, including impaired movement and decreased sensation in the affected muscles due to damage or stretching of nerves either during childbirth or through operations like surgery or trauma.
Though it can generally improve on its own without treatment, physical therapy plays an important role in helping those with Erb’s Palsy recover the full use of their affected limbs. With the help of trained professionals and specialized programs, individuals can regain full strength and control over their movements, allowing them to return to activities they may have been unable to do before.
Shoulder Dystocia
Shoulder dystocia is a rare but potentially very serious birthing complication. During delivery, the baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvis, and can result in extreme distress for both the baby and the mother. Knowing the signs and symptoms of shoulder dystocia is essential for medical professionals — and even for expecting parents — in order to recognize it quickly and take proper steps to reduce complications.
Education regarding shoulder dystocia should be easily available and more widely known so that incidents can be identified right away and appropriate steps taken to optimize safety. If shoulder dystocia is caught early, potential risks to both mother and baby are greatly reduced.