What is shoulder dystocia?

In today’s world of modern medicine, giving birth in California is much safer than it was even a few decades ago, but that doesn’t mean that doctors are infallible. Thousands of birth injuries occur in hospitals every year, which can lead the parents to sue physicians for medical malpractice. Shoulder dystocia is one of the most common birth injuries in the U.S., affecting hundreds of babies every year.

What is shoulder dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia is a birth injury that occurs when the baby’s shoulders get stuck inside the mother’s pelvis during delivery. When this happens, the baby could experience torn muscles or bone fractures. In severe cases, the newborn might experience permanent nerve damage that can lead to paralysis. This injury could also cut off the supply of oxygen to the brain, leading to permanent brain damage or even death.

The mother can also suffer from birth injuries related to shoulder dystocia. She could experience a ruptured uterus or a tearing of the genital area. After she’s given birth, she might also experience severe bleeding. A mother might sue her physician for medical malpractice to seek compensation for her and her baby’s injuries.

Shoulder dystocia is difficult to predict since it can happen to virtually any woman. If you’re delivering twins or triplets, you’re at a greater risk for dealing with shoulder dystocia. Being overweight and having diabetes are other common risk factors. Giving birth to a baby that weighs eight pounds or more also increases your risk of experiencing shoulder dystocia.

What can you do if you or your child suffers a birth injury?

It’s your doctor’s responsibility to care for you and your child without causing harm. If your medical professional failed to live up to that promise, an attorney could help you sue for financial compensation and possibly get some closure after the incident.