Risks of a Delayed C-Section

Did you know that almost one in every three babies is delivered via c-section? They’re usually required when there’s a high risk with standard vaginal delivery. Usually, these risks are detected early on, and the doctor will schedule a c-section in advance; however, sometimes, risks arise during delivery, resulting in an emergency c-section.

Reasons for Emergency C-Sections

There are quite a few reasons for emergency c-sections. When a mother or baby displays the following, a doctor should choose to schedule an emergency c-section.

Fetal Distress

Fetal distress is one of the most common reasons for emergency c-sections—it’s usually detected when a baby’s heart rate grows too fast or too slow. If a c-section is not performed within minutes of the baby’s distress, the baby can suffer from oxygen loss in the womb. This could ultimately lead to brain damage and cerebral palsy.

Umbilical Cord Issues

Umbilical cords are also a tricky issue since they cannot be moved while inside the womb. The umbilical cord is the baby’s primary source of nutrition and oxygen, which is why compression of the cord can be deadly for the infant.

Umbilical cord prolapse is another similar complication that requires a c-section. In this situation, the umbilical cord drops into the mother’s cervix, which can cause the cord to get stuck, compressed, or entangled as the baby comes out. Without oxygen, the baby can suffer from brain damage or even death.

Stalled Labor

When a mother’s body is not progressing throughout labor, an emergency c-section becomes necessary. Stalled labor can affect the baby, but it can also be deadly for the mother. The baby is at risk of oxygen deprivation, hemorrhages, and even sepsis. Mothers are more at risk for postpartum infections, excessive bleeding, and intrauterine infections.

Was Your Emergency C-Section Too Late?

The birth of your child is a memory you should be able to positively look back on. However, sometimes that may not be the case when negligence is involved. If you or a loved one had a delayed emergency c-section, you should contact our legal team immediately. With compassion and aggressive legal representation, we have advocated on behalf of hundreds of families, and we aren’t stopping any time soon.

Give out office a call at (855) 757-4204 or visit our Contact Us page to get started on your free consultation.