Losing a baby or seeing a newborn hurt is both heartbreaking and devastating. Many parents wonder if a medical mistake played a part, but have no idea where to begin getting answers to their questions. When warning signs are missed or treatment comes too late, the outcome can change everything. Learning how birth medical negligence works can help you understand what happened and consider your next steps when you feel ready.
How Does Birth Medical Negligence Happen?
Birth medical negligence happens when a doctor or provider fails to meet accepted medical standards, causing injury. Parents may face this after a mistake during prenatal care, labor, or delivery. Missed diagnoses, delays, or improper use of tools raise one key question: Would another provider have acted differently? If so, negligence may have occurred. Common examples include:
- Mismanagement of birth complications and adverse events
- Poor management of labor
- Bad decision-making during care
- Failures in fetal surveillance (monitoring the baby’s condition)
- Poor cesarean section management
These injuries can create serious, long-term health needs for a child and, in some cases, lead to death.
What Should Parents Know About Medical Malpractice Birth Injuries?
Medical malpractice birth injuries can range from mild, treatable harm to severe complications, long-term health needs, or even death. The most reported injuries include:
- Broken collarbones
- Swelling of the newborn’s scalp
- Pooling of blood under the scalp
- Erb’s palsy (a type of nerve injury to the shoulder/arm
- Facial nerve paralysis
- Fractures of the upper arm bone (humerus) or upper leg bone (femur)
Parents often feel overwhelmed and want to know what happened and whether it could have been prevented. A legal review will examine records and experts to give clearer answers.
What Are the Key Signs Something Went Wrong During Birth?
Warning signs include unexpected complications, delayed treatment, or injuries that providers cannot explain. You may notice:
- A sudden drop in fetal heart rate
- Emergency intervention that happens too late
- Bruising or swelling around the infant’s head or shoulders
- Seizures shortly after birth
- NICU admission without an apparent reason
Some families learn later that the injury may have come from a preventable error. If you have concerns, you can request a medical review. A birth injury lawyer will check the records and explain whether negligence may have played a role.
How Does Birth Medical Negligence Impact Families?
Birth negligence creates emotional strain, financial pressure, and long-term uncertainty. The impact extends far beyond delivery. Families may face:
- Expensive therapies
- Ongoing medical appointments
- Home care support
- Special equipment
- Lost income due to caregiving needs
Parents in this situation want honest answers above all else. They’re hurting and trying to understand what happened. A lawyer will take time to go through your losses with you and explain what choices you have when you feel ready.
When Should Parents Consider a Legal Claim?
Consider a claim if you believe something may have gone wrong during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, and your child was harmed. Reach out to a medical malpractice attorney if:
- You see inconsistencies in your child’s care
- Providers will not explain what happened
- You suspect delays or errors
- Long-term care costs appear overwhelming
Washington, DC pauses the filing deadline for minors. Families generally have until the child turns 21 to bring a birth injury claim. Acting early gives your lawyer time to review records, speak with experts, and prepare the case.
How a Birth Injury Lawyer Will Help
Parents often feel more confident with a legal advocate who understands medical standards and the local courts. An experienced birth injury lawyer will:
- Gather and review medical records
- Consult specialists
- Identify preventable errors
- Calculate your losses
- Prepare your claim
- Negotiate with insurers
- Represent you in court if needed
Discuss Your Case with Simeone & Miller, LLP
If you believe birth medical negligence harmed your child, it’s time to explore your legal options. The team at Simeone & Miller, LLP will walk you through the process, investigate to determine what happened, and help you move forward. To discuss your situation, contact our office in Washington, DC today to get started with a consultation.
