Welcoming a newborn into the world is a joyous occasion, but unfortunately, complications during childbirth can lead to birth injuries. These injuries, often unforeseen, usually have a lasting impact on both the infant and the parents.
To learn more, a person can explore three common birth injuries.
1. Brachial plexus injury
One of the prevalent birth injuries is a brachial plexus injury, affecting the network of nerves controlling the arm and hand movements. This injury may occur during a delivery when healthcare workers apply excessive force to the baby’s neck or shoulder area.
The result is damage to the brachial plexus nerves, leading to weakness or paralysis in the affected arm. Symptoms include lack of muscle control, impaired reflexes and a noticeable difference in arm strength compared to the unaffected side.
2. Cerebral palsy
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting movement, posture and coordination, often stemming from brain damage during or shortly after birth. This injury happens due to factors such as oxygen deprivation, infections or head trauma during delivery. An estimated 1 in 345 children must deal with cerebral palsy.
Infants with cerebral palsy may have delayed development and difficulty in muscle control and involuntary movements. The severity of cerebral palsy varies, and its impact on a child’s life can range from mild to severe.
3. Fractures and bone injuries
Birth-related fractures and bone injuries can occur during delivery, especially in cases of breech births or the usage of forceps. The most common fractures involve the collarbone or clavicle. They can cause pain and limit the baby’s arm movement temporarily. Other bone injuries may include fractures of the skull or long bones, which may require medical intervention for proper healing.
While modern medical practices aim to minimize the risks associated with childbirth, complications may still arise. Early recognition of the signs and prompt medical attention can play a big role in managing the consequences of these injuries.