Birth injuries can be caused by a variety of different factors but most injuries occur during the baby’s journey through the birthing canal shortly before delivery.
Below are some of the most common causes of birth injury:
A birth lasting over 18 hours is classed as a delayed birth. In delayed births, pressure on the infant's brain increases and can result in foetal distress and elevated blood pressure, resulting in further complications and injuries.
This is a very serious birthing complication and can cause a wide range of injuries to infants, such as brain injuries. Lack of oxygen can occur due to a prolapsed umbilical cord, or because of underdeveloped lungs in premature infants.
A doctor may be liable for birth injuries due to excessive force or medical negligence/malpractice. Inexperienced or impatient doctors may misjudge the situation, such as using forceps or vacuums unnecessarily.
There are also other causes of birth injuries, such as when the child’s body is improperly manipulated during delivery.