NEW Understanding birth injuries

Birth injuries can affect both mothers and babies, sometimes with lifelong consequences. In many cases, these injuries result from unavoidable complications. However, when medical negligence is involved, families deserve answers, accountability, and support. We’ll explain the different types of birth injuries that can happen before, during, or after labour, how they may occur, and when they may be linked to poor medical care.

Pre-birth negligence and pregnancy negligence

Pregnancy and maternity negligence, or pre-birth negligence, can have long-lasting consequences on both a mother and her baby. No pregnant mother should have to experience substandard care during pregnancy, or deal with any lasting health conditions caused by medical mistakes long after birth. Examples of pregnancy negligence can include:

• Failing to identify signs of infection;
• Missing an abnormality during a scan, or blood test;
• Failing to get a full health history from the mother, or failing to perform antenatal checks properly;
• Failing to treat underlying health conditions properly during pregnancy;
• Failing to discuss all the possible birthing options and the risks of each to give mothers control over their birthing journey;
• Misdiagnosis of an issue, or delay in diagnosis.

Ectopic pregnancy

We understand how worrying and upsetting ectopic pregnancies can be. Most commonly, this type of pregnancy is caused by pelvic inflammatory disease, which should be treated in a timely manner and not negligently left to cause further problems. We’ve helped many people and families take legal action following ectopic pregnancy negligence. Our client Lillian* was left with pain and depression following a mismanaged ectopic pregnancy, and we worked closely with her and her family to get the best outcome possible. Read Lillian’s story here >>

Pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia occurs when a pregnant mother develops high blood pressure. This can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby. The condition can develop quickly and be life-threatening. Signs of pre-eclampsia include:

• Swelling in the face and hands;
• Severe headaches;
• Changes in vision;
• Severe pain in the upper abdomen.

Medical professionals should monitor mothers closely throughout their pregnancies to watch for signs of pre-eclampsia and should provide treatment as necessary.