There are many milestones in life. However, not many are as exciting as becoming a parent. Unfortunately, this excitement can turn into a nightmare if your child sustains an injury either during the pregnancy period at birth.
One of the most devastating injuries an infant can suffer at birth is injury to the brain. Studies show that approximately 6 out of 1000 babies suffer some form of brain injury before or during birth. But how exactly do these injuries happen?
Here are three ways a baby may suffer injuries to the brain before or during birth.
Lack of oxygen
Asphyxia or oxygen deprivation is a leading cause of brain injury both during pregnancy and birth. Asphyxia can take two forms: anoxia and hypoxia.
Anoxia happens when the infant’s brain is completely cut off from oxygen supply for a duration of time while hypoxia happens when the brain’s oxygen supply is significantly reduced, mostly due to tissue damage.
Improper use of the vacuum extractors and forceps
During delivery, the healthcare provider may use both vacuum extractors and forceps to guide the baby through the birth canal during birth. Improper use of these devices can cause serious injuries including strokes, TBIs and hemorrhage.
Infections
Maternal infections that are not properly diagnosed and treated in time can also lead to brain damage. The risk and nature of brain injury depend on the location and type of infection (viral or bacterial). For instance, chorioamnionitis can cause irreversible damage to the infant’s brain if it’s not diagnosed and treated in time.
Pursuing justice
Brain injury at birth can have a lasting impact on your child’s life. If your baby sustains brain injuries during birth, you may be eligible for financial restitution through a birth injury claim.
