Birth injuries can occur for several reasons during labor and delivery. Some factors are related to the baby’s position, the size of the baby, or complications that arise during the birth process. Understanding these causes can help clarify why some injuries happen and how they may be prevented.
Complications during labor
Complications such as prolonged labor, or when the baby is stuck in the birth canal, can lead to birth injuries. A long or difficult labor increases the likelihood of forceful interventions like forceps or vacuum extraction, which can cause bruising, fractures, or nerve damage in the baby. In some cases, the baby’s head may experience too much pressure, leading to conditions such as a skull fracture or intracranial bleeding.
Improper use of medical instruments
When doctors or medical staff use forceps or a vacuum to assist in delivery, it can sometimes lead to birth injuries if the tools are not used correctly. Improper application of these tools may cause nerve damage, especially to the brachial plexus, which can result in conditions like Erb’s palsy. These injuries can lead to loss of movement in the arms and hands, though many cases improve with treatment over time.
Baby’s position and size
The baby’s position during delivery also plays a significant role in the risk of birth injuries. For example, if the baby is in a breech position (feet or buttocks first), it may be harder to deliver safely, increasing the risk of injury. Similarly, a larger baby (macrosomia) can present challenges for the mother’s pelvis, leading to pressure on the baby’s body and potentially causing injuries such as shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulders get stuck during delivery.
Maternal health conditions
Certain maternal health conditions can increase the risk of birth injuries. For example, gestational diabetes can lead to a larger-than-normal baby, which may increase the risk of delivery complications. If the mother has an infection or if there are issues with the placenta, these factors can also contribute to complications during delivery that may cause harm to the baby.
While not all birth injuries can be avoided, understanding their causes can help reduce the risk. With proper prenatal care, careful monitoring during labor, and skilled medical intervention, many birth injuries can be prevented or treated effectively.