If Pitocin Misuse Harmed Me or My Child, Can I Sue?

 Posted on January 13, 2025 in Birth Injury

Expectant mothers today can schedule childbirth, either by C-section or labor induction using Pitocin. This synthetic hormone, which is similar to naturally produced oxytocin, may also be used if a mother’s labor is not progressing as it should. When administered correctly, Pitocin is a valuable aid. However, Pitocin misuse can severely harm both mother and child.

What complications can Pitocin cause? How do I know if my or my child’s birth injuries were caused by Pitocin misuse? Working with a competent Chicago, IL birth injury lawyer greatly increases your chances of a successful outcome for your compensation claim.  

How Is Pitocin Supposed to Work?

A mother’s body produces a hormone called oxytocin during labor to help her prepare for delivery. This hormone causes and increases the intensity of contractions. Administered through an IV, Pitocin is a drug that performs similar functions. Pitocin encourages the mother’s body to produce natural contractions through uterine stimulation.

The initial dosage should be low because it is uncertain how a mother’s body might react to the drug. In addition, Pitocin-induced contractions can be stronger and more frequent, with the potential to harm both the mother and child. Healthcare professionals should closely monitor fetal and maternal heart rates when Pitocin is used and be prepared to intervene if either shows signs of distress.

How Can Mothers and Babies Be Harmed by Pitocin?

During a contraction, the placenta’s delivery of blood to the fetus may be reduced or stopped. As the contraction passes and the uterus relaxes, blood flow should resume to its normal volume. Because the fetus receives oxygen through the blood flow, it is important for the uterus to fully relax between contractions to allow the baby to receive enough oxygen.

The contractions a mother has with Pitocin can be so frequent and strong that her uterus does not fully relax, potentially causing fetal asphyxia. In turn, the lack of oxygen can lead to fetal issues including:

• Brain injuries

• Stroke

• Abnormal heart rate

• Seizures

• Cerebral palsy

The baby can further be harmed if the mother experiences injuries due to Pitocin, which could include placental abruption, uterine rupture, water intoxication, brain hemorrhaging, and a severe allergic reaction. Both mother and child could die.

Is Pitocin Misuse Considered Medical Malpractice?

If the mother and infant, or both, suffer harm from Pitocin that could have been prevented, you may have grounds for compensation through a medical malpractice claim. Examples of medical negligence include:

• Failure to monitor for distress

• Administration of a Pitocin dosage that is too high

• Failure to perform a C-section or another appropriate intervention if distress is noticed

• Using Pitocin when the baby is not positioned properly for birth

• Using Pitocin when the mother has certain complications

• Failure to discontinue Pitocin when contractions begin to occur naturally

The best way to determine whether you are eligible for compensation is to call us and schedule your free consultation. We focus on handling birth injury cases, so we are extremely knowledgeable about this topic. This gives you an advantage when you are pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Discuss Your Case With an Effective Chicago, IL Pitocin Misuse Lawyer

If medical negligence harmed you, your wife, or your child, partnering with Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. is invaluable. Call 312-462-4200 or contact us online to arrange your free case review with one of our dedicated Cook County, IL birth injury attorneys.