Can The Use of Forceps Cause a Birth Injury?

Why Are Forceps Necessary?

Forceps are a device used to help a baby through the birth canal during delivery. There are a few reasons why the use of forceps may be necessary during the birthing process, such as:

  • Fetal distress
  • Prolonged labor
  • The baby is in an unsafe position during the pushing stage
  • The baby is stuck in the birth canal

When used properly, a forceps delivery can be completed without any issues. However, when implemented incorrectly or used with too much force, there can be complications. Here’s what you need to know.

Complications with The Use of Forceps

With any medical procedure or use of medical tools, there’s always some element of risk. Here are some risks and complications:

  • Bruising on the baby’s scalp or head swelling (usually goes away a few days after birth)
  • Nerve loss or damage to the baby’s facial muscles
  • Bleeding inside the skull
  • Seizures
  • Skull fractures

Can a Mother Sustain a Birth Injury From Forceps Use?

Doctors must take extra care to ensure too much force or pressure isn’t being applied when using forceps during childbirth. Forceps can cause the following birth injuries in mothers:

  • Lower genital tears
  • Pain in the perineum
  • Urinary or fecal incontinence
  • Injuries to the urethra or bladder
  • Uterine rupture
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Difficulty urinating

When You Need Help After a Birth Injury, Contact Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC.

Learning your child has suffered a birth injury is devastating news. With so many unanswered questions, you may be wondering where you can get the help and information you need. At Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC we are here to help you seek compensation to provide for your child now and for their future. In addition to seeking compensation, our birth injury attorneys can assist parents with setting up trusts and establishing caregivers to ensure the child has the necessary means for life care. Let us help your family through this difficult time.

Call (502) 244-7772 to speak to one of our lawyers today.

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