How can the use of forceps lead to birth injuries?

On Behalf of | Apr 4, 2024 | Birth Injuries |

Bringing a baby into the world is a joyous time for parents, but sometimes problems during birth can occur. In some cases, doctors might use forceps to help with the delivery.

However, these tools come with their own set of dangers. This includes the chance of birth injuries to the baby or the mother, which may cause individuals to seek fair compensation.

Common usage of forceps

Forceps are medical instruments resembling large spoons or tongs, designed to grasp the baby’s head and facilitate its passage through the birth canal during delivery. Doctors may use them if there are concerns about the baby’s health or if the labor is taking too long.

Dangers of forceps

One big risk of using forceps is that they can cause birth injuries to the baby and mother during delivery if doctors are too rough. Babies’ skulls are fragile, so they are especially vulnerable to getting hurt during forceps-assisted births.

These injuries can be serious, such as fractures or nerve damage. Mothers can also experience tears or cuts in the vaginal area because of forceps.

Long-term effects

Injuries caused by forceps can have lasting effects. Some babies may suffer from developmental delays or cognitive impairments as a result of trauma during delivery. These issues can make life harder for the child and require ongoing medical help. Mothers who suffer severe tears or damage to their pelvic area might deal with pain or bladder problems long after giving birth, as well as mental trauma.

Knowing about these risks can help an expecting mother make informed choices about her baby’s birth. By focusing on safety, doctors can work to lower the chances of birth injuries and make childbirth a positive experience for all women and their babies.