Failure to Recognize Fetal Distress during Delivery
A wide variety of health problems can cause symptoms that fall under the umbrella term of fetal distress. These problems include a significant increase or decrease in the baby’s heart rate in the birth canal or womb, a decrease in the baby’s movement through the birth canal, or high levels of lactate in the blood.
Failure to monitor closely during the birth of a child, accurately interpret the information and failure to respond to fetal distress can endanger both child and mother. In the infant, results can be as severe as brain injury or even death.
Causes of Fetal Distress
In many cases, fetal distress can be triggered by:
- Shoulder dystocia
- Umbilical cord prolapse (the cord preceding the baby)
- Nuchal cord (the umbilical cord becoming wrapped around the fetus’s neck)
- Placental abruption
- A tear in the uterus
- Abnormal fetus position
If you believe your child suffered from failure to recognize fetal distress or any other negligence-related birth injury or condition, consult with the Law Offices of Ronald W. Sage PA at (732) 547-2944 about your medical malpractice case.
This informational blog was provided by Ronald W. Sage, an experienced New Jersey Birth Injury Attorney.