Can I Sue if An Infection Harmed My Baby?

 Posted on November 12, 2024 in Infections

During pregnancy, labor, and childbirth, babies depend on their mother’s body for oxygen and nutrients. Without this connection, babies cannot properly develop or survive. However, there is also a risk of infections passing from mother to child. Competent obstetricians and midwives understand these risks and the potential harm that could result from the infections.

Unfortunately, failing to treat maternal infections appropriately can lead to various illnesses and birth injuries. While these injuries are not necessarily visible, they can still endanger your child. If a healthcare provider failed to correctly diagnose or treat maternal infections, he could be liable for the harm your child suffered. Working with a knowledgeable lawyer from Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. dramatically increases your likelihood of receiving full compensation.

What Is a Congenital Infection?

At any time during pregnancy and childbirth, a baby can contract an infection from the mother. These infections that infants get directly from their mothers are called congenital infections. Infants can also be infected by contaminants in the delivery room.

Common congenital infections include:

• TORCH complex: toxoplasmosis, others (Hepatitis B and syphilis), rubella, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex

• HIV

• Group B Streptococcus

• Foodborne illnesses

The types of harm these and other infections can cause to unborn children vary but may include:

• Neurological damage

• Premature birth

• Miscarriage

• Blindness

• Hearing loss

• Epilepsy

• Cerebral palsy

• Low birth weight

• Nerve damage

• Meningitis

• Cognitive and developmental impairments or disabilities

Some infections harm babies directly, while others can cause the mother’s body to harm the unborn child. Regardless, doctors should know how to minimize the risks.

Can I Sue If My Baby Was Harmed Because My Provider Did Not Take Proper Precautions Against Infections?

A mother is not always eligible for compensation if an unborn child or newborn contracts an infection. To qualify, your healthcare provider must have been negligent in caring for the expectant mother during her pregnancy, labor, and childbirth, or the child must have contracted an infection due to delivery room errors and unsanitary conditions.

If you suspect that medical malpractice harmed your child, contact Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd.. Our attorneys have extensive experience with birth injury cases and can help your family get the compensation you deserve.

What Damages Are Available for Birth Injuries?

Every case is different, and the damages you could receive depend on factors unique to your situation. However, you could obtain reimbursement or compensation for:

• Current and future medical expenses

• Ongoing care costs

• Lost wages

• Pain and suffering

• Various losses that diminish the quality of life for you and your child

When you choose Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd., we will carefully calculate your eligible damages and fight to help you collect the highest amount available.

Call Our Compassionate Chicago, IL Birth Injuries Lawyers Today

When a healthcare provider causes harm through negligence, you need assistance holding the provider accountable. Call Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. at 312-462-4200 to schedule your free consultation with our dedicated Cook County, IL medical malpractice attorneys.