Shoulder dystocia is a serious complication that can occur during childbirth. This condition, which involves an infant’s shoulder getting stuck in the birth canal, can be harmful not only to the child but to the mother as well.

Doctors must take swift action when shoulder dystocia occurs. When they fail to do so, the consequences can be devastating. In these cases, an experienced birth injury attorney could help hold a negligent doctor accountable. Discuss your options with a Newburgh shoulder dystocia lawyer who is prepared to fight on your behalf.

Consequences of Shoulder Dystocia

The consequences of shoulder dystocia can worsen the longer the condition goes untreated. Some of the most common injuries that can result from shoulder dystocia include:

  • Fractured humerus or clavicle
  • Hemorrhaging in the mother
  • Brain damage to the baby
  • Birth asphyxia
  • Umbilical cord compression
  • Brachial plexus injuries

While shoulder dystocia does not always result in serious health complications, the failure to treat it in a timely manner increases the chance of medical issues. In some cases, an act of medical malpractice could result in fatal injuries to the mother or infant. A knowledgeable Newburgh attorney could pursue legal action for any complications arising from the negligent medical care of shoulder dystocia.

Risk Factors for Shoulder Dystocia

Different factors can increase the risk of shoulder dystocia during childbirth. Doctors should be aware of these factors when weighing the risks of this occurring with their patients. A doctor who fails to consider these risk factors before the delivery date could put the mother and infant in danger.

Studies have shown that a primary risk factor that contributes to the likelihood of shoulder dystocia is maternal diabetes. Other medical factors can also result in an increased risk of shoulder dystocia, like the use of forceps or high fetal weight. It is the duty of doctors or medical professionals to ensure that these risks are taken into account when planning and performing the delivery.

Seeking Compensation for Birth Injuries

Doctors, nurses, and the facilities that support them have an obligation to provide mothers with a safe environment during childbirth. Growing families trust these medical professionals to prove immediate and effective care when dangerous circumstances—like shoulder dystocia—arise.

Some cases of shoulder dystocia are unavoidable. However, doctors or nurses that fail to meet the basic standard of care when treating this issue could be liable for damages that occur. A medical professional could fail to recognize the warning signs of shoulder dystocia early on or fail to adequately treat the issue after it arises. Legal action could be possible in either case. Any questions about whether a medical professional could be held liable for a case of shoulder dystocia should be directed to a knowledgeable Newburgh attorney.

Call a Newburgh Shoulder Dystocia Attorney Now

Everyone wants to have a smooth delivery process ensuring both the mother and baby are safe and healthy. Dealing with shoulder dystocia during childbirth can be worrisome, but with the appropriate medical care, this condition typically results in no long-term consequences. Unfortunately, the outcomes can be much worse when doctors fail to provide adequate care.

Your family deserves legal counsel that could fight for the compensation you need to move forward and hold negligent medical professionals accountable. Reach out to a Newburgh shoulder dystocia lawyer today to learn more.