Causes of Infant Bruising After Birth

In some cases, minor bruising is a normal part of the birthing process. The path the baby takes during delivery can lead to temporary bruising. But, in other cases, this bruising can be extreme and can indicate a bigger problem. It is important to evaluate the cause and whether it is a concern of medical malpractice.

What Is Medical Malpractice During Childbirth?

Medical malpractice is when an error occurs during a medical procedure, like childbirth. This is also referred to as a birth injury and it can lead to lifelong concerns.

Childbirth injuries might include any of the following:

Brachial palsy: Brachial palsy is when the baby’s nerves are injured during childbirth. It most often occurs when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck.
Bruising: Bruising can occur from contact with the mother’s bones. It can also occur from birthing forceps in the form of lacerations.
Cephalohematoma: Cephalohematoma occurs when there is bleeding between the head and its fibrous covering. It will usually appear in the form of a bump.
Facial paralysis: Repeated pressure on the baby’s facial nerves during childbirth can also lead to facial paralysis.

These are just a few of the problems that can occur during childbirth. While some of these injuries cannot be prevented, others can.

What Causes Birth Injuries?

There are many things that can cause a birth injury, with a few of these including any of the following:

Larger babies: Babies that are heavier in weight or longer in size are more prone to suffer more injuries during childbirth.
Premature babies: Additionally, babies who have not had enough time to develop in the womb can be more prone to injuries during childbirth.
Difficult labor: Some women are more at risk of difficult labor, which can pose a risk of birth injuries.
Long labor: The more time that a mother is in labor, the more chances that there are for birth injuries to occur.

Other factors can also lead to birth injuries, including a breech delivery or if the mother is considered obese. The mother is usually made aware of these factors before giving birth.

Additionally, medical mistakes made by the nursing staff or delivering physician can also lead to birth injuries. The medical staff is expected to closely monitor both the mother and baby’s vitals. Depending on the condition of both, they may decide to schedule a C-section or to administer medication. Failing to monitor the health or take action quickly following any concerns of either’s wellbeing could be considered malpractice.

Read more: Dynamics of a Birth Injury Lawsuit

Concerned About Medical Malpractice?

Medical malpractice is a serious concern that needs to be addressed as soon as possible to ensure you are eligible for any compensation you deserve. If your baby was injured during childbirth and you are left with ongoing medical bills, then you may be eligible for compensation from medical malpractice.

Medical malpractice is not always easy to identify. It takes a diligent lawyer with experience in state laws and access to the resources you need to uncover potential medical malpractice.

Contact A Medical Malpractice Attorney for a Consultation About Your Birth Injury Case in Florida

Were you or a loved one injured due to medical malpractice in Florida? Then you need to talk to an experienced medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible for guidance on how to proceed. The Fort Lauderdale medical malpractice attorneys at Lawlor, White & Murphey are prepared to assist you with your legal claim. We represent victims of negligent surgeons, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists throughout Florida, including Broward County, Fort Lauderdale, Coconut Creek, and Plantation. Call us today at (954) 525-2345 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Our main office is located at 2211 Davie Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33312 and we also have offices in Pembroke Pines, Weston, Coconut Creek, Plantation, and Pompano Beach, FL.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.

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