A child’s birth is probably the most beautiful, natural thing anyone can imagine. To see life come into the world seems miraculous, to say the least. However, it can be incredibly heartbreaking for parents to see their newborns hurt or injured.

Many children are subjected to birth injuries during pregnancy, at the time of birth, or right after birth. Some of the injuries are minor and heal without any medical attention; others may become more severe, causing life-changing deformities in children for their entire lives. Birth injuries may sometimes be confused with congenital disabilities, which are two very different things. Congenital disabilities develop in the womb during the first trimester of pregnancy due to environmental factors. However, birth injuries frequently occur due to negligence during delivery or other risk factors.

Causes of Birth Injuries

There can be different causes of birth injuries, as highlighted by experts like Russell J. Berkowitz. The most common causes are prolonged labor, lack of oxygen, and viral or bacterial infections in either the mother or the baby. Delayed labor, often more than 18 hours, is one of the leading causes of birth injuries.

Delayed Labor can increase the pressure in the infant’s head, further leading to high blood pressure, distress resulting in strokes and other cardiovascular problems, and nerve impairments. Additionally, oxygen deprivation caused by underdeveloped lungs or prolapses of the umbilical cord is also one of the common reasons for injuries among babies. Finally, infections, both bacterial and viral, are also known for developing complications during pregnancy, leading to birth injuries. Other risk factors that lead to birth injuries include particular pelvic shapes of mothers that restrict delivery, heavy birth weight of infants, premature births, or unusual birth positions such as breech positions and buttocks-first positions amid labor. 

Apart from this, medical negligence also serves as one of the most significant causes of birth injuries. Not only can physical injury sometimes occur with improper use of the forceps and vacuum pumps, but failure to recognize risk factors and implement necessary preventive measures can also lead to injuries during childbirth. 

Symptoms of Birth Injuries

There are several symptoms and signs of birth injuries. While some may be visible and appear right after birth, other symptoms may take time to appear, which is why infants need constant attention and extra care, especially during the first few years of their lives. Symptoms that appear immediately may include weak reflexes, sensitivity to light, low vitals, unusual crying posture such as an arched back while crying, difficulty in swallowing or suckling, too much drooling, and unusually loosened or stiff muscles.

During the first few days, infants should be monitored and tested regularly to notice any irregular behavior so that immediate medical care is provided in time. Symptoms that develop later can often be detected when children do not grow at a regular pace. These symptoms can include difficulties performing usual tasks such as eating, walking, and speaking, and constant help with these activities is needed due to limited control over parts of the body.

Amongst the children with cerebral palsy, 75 percent experienced pain, 50% had a cognitive disability, 33% were unable to walk, and 25% had epilepsy.

Treatment

Treatment can vary for different forms of birth injuries. However, the most common forms of treatment include medications, surgery, occupational therapy to promote development, and assistive devices in children who develop disabilities with movement and locomotion. 

Final Notes

Birth injuries can be heartbreaking for families, but understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatments is essential for providing the best care for affected children. Early detection and proper medical attention can make a big difference in a child’s quality of life. With the right support, therapy, and medical care, many children can overcome challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Families should also explore legal options if negligence contributed to the injury, ensuring accountability and support for their child’s future.