Bringing a new life into the world is a moment filled with joy, hope, and anticipation. But what happens when complications during childbirth leave hidden injuries, ones that don't show up right away? For parents, recognizing these injuries as early as possible is critical—not only for the child’s health and well-being but also for holding those responsible accountable if medical negligence is involved.
If you've recently welcomed a little one and suspect something might not be right, you're not alone. Many birth-related injuries don't have immediate symptoms, making it crucial to stay vigilant and informed.
Common Post-Birth Injuries You May Not Notice Immediately
Not all birth injuries are visible from the start, and some can manifest days, weeks, or even months later. Below are some injuries that are often overlooked initially but can have lasting effects:
1. Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders affecting movement, muscle coordination, and posture. It can result from oxygen deprivation during delivery, improper use of delivery tools, or other complications. While severe CP is often diagnosed shortly after birth, milder cases might not be detected until the child begins missing developmental milestones, such as crawling or sitting up.
Signs to watch for:
- Delayed motor skills, like rolling over or holding up the head.
- Stiff or floppy muscles.
- Difficulty with feeding or swallowing.
2. Brachial Plexus Injuries (Erb’s Palsy)
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that controls the arm and hand. During delivery, excessive pulling on the baby's neck or improper use of instruments like forceps can cause damage. While some babies recover fully within a few months, others may develop lasting issues if the injury is severe.
Signs to watch for:
- Weakness or lack of movement in one arm.
- Limited grip strength on one side.
- Lack of reflexes in the arm or hand.
3. Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
HIE, caused by a lack of oxygen and blood flow to the baby’s brain during labor or delivery, can lead to brain damage. Its symptoms may not be apparent until later, especially if the damage is mild.
Signs to watch for:
- Seizures within the first days or weeks of life.
- Difficulty feeding or latching.
- Delayed development or lack of response to sounds and visual stimuli.
4. Fractures and Musculoskeletal Injuries
Fractures during delivery, especially of the clavicle or collarbone, might go unnoticed at first. Some heal on their own, but others can lead to complications.
Signs to watch for:
- Baby crying when picked up or when pressure is applied to a specific area.
- Swelling or tenderness in a suspected area.
- Restricted movement of a limb.
5. Facial Nerve Injuries
Facial nerve injuries often happen due to pressure on the baby’s face during delivery. These injuries may not become apparent immediately unless you notice symmetry issues.
Signs to watch for:
- Difficulty closing one eye or uneven facial expressions.
- Drooping on one side of the face.
- Difficulty feeding, especially on one side.
Why Early Detection Is Critical
Spotting and addressing post-birth injuries early isn’t just about helping your baby thrive. It can also lay the foundation for holding medical professionals accountable if negligence occurred. Catching these issues early allows for better medical treatment, therapeutic interventions, and, if needed, the ability to pursue compensation to cover the costs of your child’s care.
Take, for example, a delayed diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Early physical therapy and treatments can improve outcomes significantly. However, proving negligence months or years later can be more challenging without early medical records and documentation once the issue is discovered.
Steps You Can Take If You Suspect a Post-Birth Injury
1. Observe Closely
Trust your parental instincts. Nobody knows your baby better than you. Keep track of anything that seems unusual, and don’t hesitate to bring up even small concerns to your pediatrician.
2. Seek Medical Opinions
If your concerns aren’t addressed promptly or you're unsatisfied with the answers, seek a second opinion. Specialists like pediatric neurologists, physical therapists, or orthopedic surgeons can provide deeper insights into potential injuries.
3. Document Everything
Keep detailed records of your baby’s symptoms, medical visits, and developmental milestones. Thorough documentation can prove invaluable if you decide to pursue legal action later.
4. Look Into Possible Legal Options
If you have reason to believe that medical negligence during delivery caused your baby’s injury, consulting a personal injury attorney who specializes in birth injuries is an essential step. They can help you understand your rights, determine if you have a viable case, and guide you in pursuing compensation for medical expenses, therapy, and long-term care.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Support You
Navigating the aftermath of a birth injury can feel overwhelming. While you’re focusing on your child’s care, a personal injury attorney can handle the complexities of investigating the case and advocating for your family.
Here’s how they help:
- Investigating Negligence: They examine medical records, speak with experts, and identify whether preventable mistakes occurred.
- Calculating Long-Term Costs: Caring for a child with special needs can be financially draining. An attorney can seek damages for medical bills, therapy, special education, and loss of future earnings.
- Guiding You Through a Legal Claim: Legal procedures can be daunting, but an experienced attorney will walk you through every step, keeping you informed and empowered.
New Mexico Birth Injury Lawyers
Taking the first step toward acknowledging and seeking help for post-birth injuries can be daunting, but it's crucial for the well-being of new parents. At McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA, located in Albuquerque, NM, we understand the complexities of postpartum recovery and have dedicated resources to aid in navigating these challenges. Whether addressing physical injury claims or guiding through available emotional support, our expert team is ready to assist. Contact us today at (505) 405-4441 to explore how we can support your journey toward recovery and reclaiming a healthy, fulfilling life.
