Birth Injuries Due to Shoulder Dystocia and a Compressed Umbilical Cord

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Shoulder dystocia is a birth injury that occurs when an infant’s shoulders get stuck inside the mother’s pelvis. In some cases, the condition causes the umbilical cord to become caught between the baby and the mother’s pelvic bone, cutting off vital blood and oxygen to the infant. If not caught quickly, shoulder dystocia can cause serious health complications like brain damage and nerve injuries.

If your baby suffered a shoulder injury and related complications due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact the legal team at Finz & Finz, P.C. for a free consultation with an experienced NYC shoulder dystocia injury lawyer.

What Causes Shoulder Dystocia During Birth?

Shoulder dystocia can occur for numerous reasons. The most common include:

  • A small pelvis 
  • Fetal macrosomia, or a baby weighing more than eight pounds, 13 ounces
  • Maternal diabetes
  • Maternal obesity
  • The baby’s position during labor and delivery
  • Improper use of medical equipment
  • Giving birth to multiple babies

How Often Does Shoulder Dystocia Occur?

Shoulder dystocia is relatively rare. Some studies suggest that the condition occurs in anywhere from 0.6 to 1.4 percent of babies weighing between five pounds, eight ounces, and eight pounds, thirteen ounces at the time of birth. Larger infants are at heightened risk of shoulder dystocia. Shoulder dystocia occurs at rates between five to nine percent among babies over eight pounds and thirteen ounces. 

What Actions Are Taken if Shoulder Dystocia Happens?

Doctors can take preventive measures to minimize the chances of shoulder injuries at birth. In most cases, an obstetrician will recommend a caesarian section for the safe delivery of larger babies. Other techniques that may help prevent shoulder dystocia include:

  • Performing proper fetal monitoring
  • Changing the position of the infant
  • Changing the position of the mother to create more space in the pelvis
  • Evaluating whether an episiotomy will give the baby more space during delivery
  • Using various medical maneuvers to guide the infant’s shoulders during labor
  • Providing swift and appropriate treatment when the condition occurs to maximize health outcomes

Umbilical Cord Compression Symptoms & Signs

Symptoms from umbilical cord compression may be caused by shoulder dystocia and other birth issues. Common signs of umbilical cord compression include: 

  • Abnormal fetal heart rate 
  • Changes in amniotic fluid levels
  • Decreased infant movement 
  • Umbilical cord prolapse 
  • Vaginal bleeding 

The Dangers of Umbilical Cord Compression

Umbilical cord compression can be a dangerous condition because it prevents an infant from getting the blood and oxygen it needs to survive. Complications from umbilical cord compression include birth injuries like: 

  • Brain damage
  • Cerebral palsy 
  • Hypoxia
  • Stillbirth

Learn How Our Shoulder Dystocia Injury Lawyers Can Help

You trust medical professionals to do what’s right for you and your baby. If you believe your child’s birth injuries occurred because a doctor or other provider violated accepted medical practices, it is time to discuss your concerns with a New York medical malpractice attorney. Finz & Finz, P.C. is a top-rated NY personal injury law firm that can help you hold medical providers accountable. Contact our office today for a free consultation.