Having a baby is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences a family can have. There was a time when pregnancy was very dangerous for both mother and child. Fortunately, through advances in medical technology, most births go relatively smoothly.
That being said, childbirth is not without risk. In some cases, both mother and child can be injured. If the labor is prolonged, then this increases the chances of the following injuries:
Brain damage
Both baby and mother need a constant supply of oxygen during labor. It can be fairly easy to provide the mother with the oxygen she requires, but the same cannot be said for the baby. During a complicated and prolonged labor, the oxygen to the baby can be cut off, and it is vital that medical teams recognize this and act.
Failure to do so can result in the child suffering oxygen deprivation and subsequent brain damage, which can even be fatal. A C-section can help to limit these risks, and it is up to the medical team to make the right calls when this is necessary.
Hemorrhaging
While there is something magical about childbirth, it can take a physical toll on the mother, too. It’s perfectly normal for there to be some bleeding, but when this is extensive and prolonged it can become very dangerous. Medical staff must be prepared to deal with bleeding throughout the pregnancy and they must also recognize if the bleeding has become excessive and prolonged.
Labor will usually go smoothly but this largely depends on the competency of the medical staff. If you or your baby has been injured through negligence, then you may be entitled to compensation. Seeking legal guidance will help to point you in the right direction.