At Wagner Reese, we protect the rights of families affected by birth injuries, including those resulting from placenta previa complications. Placenta previa, where the placenta covers the cervix partially or completely, can lead to severe bleeding and other serious complications during childbirth.
When medical negligence contributes to the mismanagement of this condition, placenta previa complications can result in harm to both the mother and baby.
Our experienced attorneys provide comprehensive legal support for prenatal issues linked to birth injuries, meticulously investigating each case and advocating for the justice and compensation that affected families deserve. With a thorough and compassionate approach, Wagner Reese ensures that families receive the guidance and representation needed to navigate the complexities of birth injury cases related to placenta previa.
Placenta Previa and Its Potential Impact During Childbirth
Placenta previa is a pregnancy complication in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix, the opening to the uterus. This abnormal placement can lead to risks during childbirth. One of the most critical concerns is severe vaginal bleeding (hemorrhage) before or during delivery, which can endanger both the mother and baby.
The condition can also lead to preterm birth, as early delivery may be necessary to manage the risks. Additionally, placenta previa often necessitates a cesarean section to safely deliver the baby, as vaginal delivery can cause the placenta to detach prematurely, leading to life-threatening bleeding.
Proper diagnosis and careful management are essential to mitigate these risks, ensuring the health and safety of both mother and child. When medical negligence in diagnosing or managing placenta previa occurs, it can result in severe complications, making getting legal help for placenta previa injuries an important option for affected families.
Common Birth Injuries From Placenta Previa
Placenta previa, where the placenta covers the cervix partially or completely, can lead to a range of birth injuries and complications if not properly diagnosed and managed. The following are some of the common birth injuries associated with placenta previa:
Severe Hemorrhage
- Maternal Hemorrhage: One of the most immediate and serious risks of placenta previa is severe vaginal bleeding before or during delivery. This can lead to maternal hemorrhage, requiring blood transfusions and emergency medical interventions to stabilize the mother.
- Neonatal Anemia: Significant maternal blood loss can also affect the baby, potentially leading to neonatal anemia, which is a deficiency of red blood cells in the newborn.
Preterm Birth
Placenta previa often necessitates early delivery to manage the risks of bleeding. Preterm birth can result in complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, underdeveloped organs, and long-term developmental delays for the baby.
Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
If severe bleeding leads to reduced oxygen supply to the baby during delivery, it can cause hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a type of brain injury that can result in long-term neurological impairments, including cerebral palsy.
Low Birth Weight
Babies born preterm due to placenta previa are often of low birth weight, which can lead to difficulties in maintaining body temperature, feeding, and fighting infections.
Emergency Cesarean Section
The need for an emergency cesarean section due to placenta previa can pose risks to both the mother and baby. Rapid surgical delivery under emergency conditions can increase the likelihood of surgical complications and stress for the newborn.
Placental Abruption
In some cases, placenta previa can lead to placental abruption, where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely. This can cause severe bleeding and fetal distress, requiring immediate medical intervention.
Fetal Distress
Reduced oxygen and nutrient supply due to bleeding or placental issues can lead to fetal distress, necessitating urgent delivery to protect the baby’s health.
Infections
Increased risk of infections for both the mother and baby, especially if there’s a prolonged rupture of membranes or if surgical interventions are required.
Proper prenatal care, early diagnosis, and careful management of placenta previa are essential to minimize these risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby. If medical negligence in diagnosing or managing placenta previa has led to birth injuries or complications, consulting with experienced attorneys at Wagner Reese can help you explore your legal options and seek the compensation you deserve.
Steps Families Should Take After Experiencing a Birth Injury Linked to Placenta Previa
After experiencing a birth injury linked to placenta previa, families should take several critical steps to protect their rights and seek justice. First, obtain comprehensive medical records documenting the prenatal care, diagnosis, and management of placenta previa, as well as details of the birth injury.
It’s essential to seek a thorough medical evaluation to understand the full extent of the injury and its long-term implications. Next, document any related expenses, including medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing care costs. Families should also keep a detailed account of the emotional and physical impact of the injury.
Most importantly, contact a medical malpractice lawyer from Wagner Reese. Our experienced attorneys can provide legal guidance, thoroughly investigate the case, and help families pursue compensation for the harm caused by medical negligence. Taking these steps promptly can enhance the chances of achieving a favorable legal outcome.
