4 of the Most Common Birth Injuries on the East Coast

America is a developed nation, and yet we suffer alarmingly high rates of maternal deaths. Approximately 60% of these deaths are preventable.

But mothers aren’t the only one suffering. Newborns are, too.

The number of birth injuries is surprisingly high in the US - about three per hour - yet there is a resounding silence surrounding the topic. If your newborn was injured and you live on the east coast, be aware of the common issues parents and newborns face after the little one is welcomed to the world.

1. Bone Fractures and Breaks
Bone fractures and breaks result from breech deliveries or, most commonly, when an infant’s shoulder causes birthing difficulties. Some fractures and breaks are due to mishandling when medical professionals attempt to maneuver the child. The collarbone is the most common bone fractured.

While most fractures and breaks heal, a newborn’s bones are fragile. Some breaks cause severe damage, such as Erb’s palsy, a type of arm paralysis resulting from damage to the nerve.

If you notice your child isn’t using a part of his or her body, or if he seems to be in pain, speak to a professional.

2. Facial Paralysis
Facial injuries result from extreme pressure on an infant’s face. If the facial nerve is injured, the child may be unable to move one side of her face. This is most noticeable when the infant cries.

Facial paralysis often improves after a few weeks if the nerve is bruised. However, if permanent damage occurred, the paralysis may require corrective surgery.

3. Caput Succedaneum
During delivery, there may be prolonged pressure on an infant’s head, resulting in a condition known as caput succedaneum, or swelling of the head. This condition itself is harmless and results from the vaginal walls and medical tools used during delivery.

In some cases, however, the edema leads to jaundice. If left untreated, serious health problems may result.

If your child experiences caput succedaneum, ensure your physician adequately addresses the possibility of jaundice.

4. Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy refers to a group of disorders and symptoms that result in poor motor skills and balance.

Cerebral palsy may be caused by a lack of oxygen (although researchers believe this occurs in a minority of cases) or damage to the brain during childbirth. Symptoms in children younger than six months include the child feeling stiff or floppy or overextension of the back and neck when being held.

Monitoring and medical evaluations are necessary to diagnose CP. If you suspect your child has this condition, speak to your physician or a specialist.

Protect the Future

“As parents, we only want our children to be healthy,” says a representative from Birth Injury Lawyers Group, a law firm that specializes in birth injuries. “However, birth injuries may result in complications no parent could foresee.”

Birth injuries shouldn’t be shrouded in silence. Instead, let’s give parents and children a voice with the hope that the future brings healthy tidings.