When you entrust your health and your unborn baby’s health to your medical team, you expect your doctor to recognize signs of distress during prenatal visits, or labor and delivery. An OB/GYN (obstetrician/gynecologist) closely monitors the health of mother and baby throughout approximately 40 weeks of pregnancy. Any number of concerning issues might arise that require close monitoring, specialized care or an emergency procedure, such as a C-section, to avoid birth injuries.
It is not your responsibility to recognize signs of maternal or fetal distress, nor is it your obligation to know what to do to resolve a particular medical issue. This is your doctor’s obligation. If he or she fails to perform a C-section in a timely manner, your health and safety, as well as your baby’s, may be at great risk.
Medical issues that necessitate C-section deliveries
The average obstetrician knows that any of the issues included in the following list are urgent medical conditions during childbirth, which may require a C-section to prevent birth injuries:
- Placenta previa
- Maternal infection of HIV or herpes virus
- Maternal diabetes or high blood pressure
- Labor failing to progress
- Infant too large to fit through birth canal
- Baby in transverse or breech position
In some hospitals, an obstetrician will automatically order a C-section if you have already had one in the past. If you experience any of these issues during labor and delivery, and your doctor does not order a C-section, severe injuries may result.
Should you agree to a scheduled C-section?
Some obstetricians have started scheduling C-sections out of convenience rather than medical necessity. While it might initially sound like a good idea, scheduling this type delivery without medical reason may increase the risk for injuries to you and your baby.
Always discuss your birthing options ahead of time
It is best to discuss labor and delivery options with your obstetrician before the time arrives to give birth. If you have questions or concerns about issues, such as C-sections, fetal distress or maternal health conditions, do not hesitate to discuss it with your medical team.
If your child has suffered birth injuries, and you believe that it is because someone on your medical team made a mistake or your obstetrician failed to order a C-section in a timely manner, you may want to seek support from someone who has experience in personal injury law. Many parents whose children have suffered such injuries in the past have been able to seek accountability against those who are responsible. Such lawsuits can keep negligent medical personnel from harming others and can give you financial support for your child’s medical treatment.