A forceps delivery involves using forceps to assist a baby through the birth canal during labor and delivery. Forceps are inserted into the birth canal and positioned on either side of the baby’s head, then used to guide the baby out. When used properly, forceps help deliver babies quickly and unharmed. However, forceps can also put infants at risk for extensive and permanent damage, resulting in potential birth injuries. Let’s go over how birth injuries are caused by forceps delivery.
When are Forceps Necessary?
There are some circumstances when a doctor may consider using forceps during delivery. For example, if the cervix is fully dilated, the mother’s membranes have ruptured, and the baby has descended into the birth canal. Some other conditions for forceps delivery include:
- Fetal distress
- Prolonged labor
- The baby is in an unsafe position
- The baby is stuck in the birth canal
When Should Forceps Not Be Used?
A doctor should avoid using forceps during labor or delivery for several reasons, including:
- The baby has not descended into the birth canal
- The baby’s arm or shoulder comes before the head
- The baby is positioned incorrectly
- The baby has a condition affecting bone strength
It is vital that the physician performing the procedure is experienced the delivery technique and closely adheres to the standard of care. If the doctor fails to uphold guidelines and standards of care and the baby is injured as a result, there may be grounds to file a medical malpractice claim.
The Risks of Forceps Delivery
There are certain risks involved in forceps deliveries to both the mother and baby that can cause severe trauma during delivery. The proper placement of the forceps is vital. Any improper placement and pressure on the baby’s head can cause life-long injuries that might need extensive medical care. Some particularly damaging birth injuries include:
- Cerebral Palsy
- Skull fractures
- Seizures
- Internal bleeding
- Facial injuries, lacerations, and disfigurement
- Facial paralysis due to damaged nerves
- Traumatic brain injury
- Brachial Plexus Palsy
Contact a Medical Malpractice Attorney
If your child was injured during a forceps delivery, you should contact an experienced birth injury lawyer to discuss your legal options. An attorney can look at the facts of your case to determine if a medical professional acted negligently during the delivery process. The Snyder Law Group, LLC experts have years of experience working with all types of medical malpractice cases. Contact us today to find out more.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.