Birth Injury Statistics: What You Must Know

Birth Injury Statistics: What You Must Know
Apr 24, 2023

Birth injury and accident statistics show that birth injuries are more common than most people think. While the majority of birth injuries are minor and cause no long-term damage, some can have serious consequences. Understanding the risk factors and causes of birth injuries can help you to reduce the chances of your child suffering a birth injury.

What are birth injuries?

Birth injuries are physical injuries that occur during or shortly after childbirth.
They can range from minor and temporary to severe and permanent.
They can affect the baby’s bones, nerves, soft tissue, and organs.

How common are birth injuries

Birth injuries occur in up to 6% of births in the United States.
They are more common in boys and in premature babies.
They can occur in both vaginal and cesarean deliveries.

What are common causes of birth injuries

Birth injuries can be caused by the birthing process or by medical errors.
Common causes include prolonged labor, improper use of delivery tools, and lack of oxygen.
Other causes include infection, genetics, and maternal health conditions.

What are the risk factors of birth injuries

Risk factors include a large baby, a prolonged labor, and a breech delivery.
Other risk factors include a mother’s age, medical conditions, and previous deliveries.
Certain medical procedures, such as forceps delivery, can also increase the risk.

Conclusion

Birth injuries can range from minor to severe and can affect a baby’s bones, nerves, soft tissue, and organs.
They are more common in boys and in premature babies and can occur in both vaginal and cesarean deliveries.
Risk factors include a large baby, a prolonged labor, and a breech delivery, as well as a mother’s age, medical conditions, and previous deliveries.

Read our earlier blog post about the Key Legal Aspects of Birth Injury Cases or contact us at (404) 892-4900 for a free consultation.

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