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Perinatal Asphyxia – a Devastating Kentucky & Ohio Birth Injury

Library Articles | October 19, 2017

If this article sounds similar to a recent experience that you or a loved one have suffered from, please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call 859-578-4444 to schedule a free consultation!

Perinatal Asphyxia – Two Words No Parent Ever Wants to Hear

You can check many things off your list as you plan the arrival of your newborn.  The nursery is prepared, the crib has fresh sheets and the diapers have been purchased.  You can spend months planning for childbirth, but you can’t plan for an unexpected birth injury.  The future that once was filled with hope can quickly turn dim.“Perinatal asphyxia” are two words that a parent never wants to hear the doctor utter.  This complication can occur when there is too little oxygen in the blood.  Sometimes the exact cause of the asphyxia is unknown, but other times the cause is identified and should have been prevented.  Below are some of the common factors linked to perinatal asphyxia:

  • Infection in the baby
  • Pressure on the umbilical cord
  • Placental abruption
  • Low maternal blood pressure
  • Drug exposure before birth
  • Inadequate oxygen during labor

Some babies will survive this birth injury and go on to live normal lives.  Others, however, will suffer permanent brain damage.  In severe cases, the child may develop cerebral palsy.
As a parent, you have the right to know what caused your child to suffer this devastating medical condition.  If you are not convinced by the doctor’s explanation or if you have the feeling that something else went wrong, you should talk with an experienced Northern Kentucky birth injury attorney.  A lawyer will be able to review the evidence in your case and determine the cause of the injury.  If it appears that the doctor or hospital caused the birth trauma, you may be able to recover compensation.
For a free case evaluation with an experienced and knowledgeable Northern Kentucky birth injury lawyer, contact us today at (859) 578-4444 or (888) 606-5297.