Common Maternal Injuries Related to Forceps Assisted Births

 Posted on July 07, 2021 in Maternal Injuries

Childbirth is often a difficult process for both the mother and the child, especially when the child is having difficulty traveling through the birth canal. In these cases, a doctor may recommend the use of forceps to guide the baby’s head and assist with the delivery. However, an error in the use of forceps can cause serious injuries not only to the child, but to the mother as well. If you have been injured while giving birth to your child, you may have a claim for compensation based on medical negligence.

Maternal Injuries From Forceps Use

The use of forceps during childbirth is a very delicate procedure, and even a minor error could have serious consequences. Some possible maternal injuries and health complications related to forceps use include:

• Lacerations and tears - Forceps can cause cuts or tears in the tissue of the vagina, the anus, or the perineum (the area in between). This can lead to scarring or excessive bleeding that may prove fatal.

• Nerve damage - Damage to the nerves surrounding the birth canal can cause a condition called pudendal neuralgia, resulting in pain and numbness when sitting or using the bathroom.

• Incontinence - Forceps can also cause damage to the bladder or bowels, making it more difficult to control urination or defecation.

• Pelvic floor injuries - Forceps can damage the muscles of the pelvic floor, which are responsible for holding the internal organs in place. This may cause the organs to drop lower in the body, a condition known as pelvic organ prolapse.

Responding to a Forceps Injury

If you have suffered any of the above injuries during a forceps-assisted delivery, you may require both short-term and long-term medical intervention, including surgery, medication, and physical therapy. In severe cases, your injuries may interfere with your day-to-day life and well-being. It is a good idea to consult with an attorney as soon as possible so that you can better understand whether you have a case for negligence on the part of the healthcare providers who were responsible for the delivery. If so, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages.

Contact an Illinois Maternal Injury Attorney

At Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd., we are committed to helping all those who have been impacted by birth injuries in Illinois, including mothers, children, and their families. We can help you determine whether you have grounds for legal action and understand the resources available to assist you. For a free consultation, contact our Chicago birth injury lawyers by calling 312-462-4200 today.

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30666429/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27454848/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/forceps-delivery/about/pac-20394207

https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/birth-injury-to-the-mother