When Intervention Is Necessary
While a mother’s body is designed to deliver a baby, sometimes it is necessary for the doctor to intervene and help.
For example, if the baby is coming out feet or bottom first (breech), or if they are face up instead of down, it creates a situation where the doctor may need to step in and help the baby come out. It can also happen if the baby is too large to fit through the mom’s pelvis.
Vacuum Extractor Risks
Vacuum extractor: A vacuum extractor is exactly what it sounds like. If the baby is stuck, the doctor may apply a suction cup to the baby’s head and use powerful suction to pull the baby out. If the baby’s shoulders are stuck behind mom’s pelvis (a condition known as shoulder dystocia), applying suction to the baby’s head can permanently injure the nerves in the baby’s neck. This is called a brachial plexus injury.
Because a baby’s skull is soft and malleable, an improperly used vacuum extractor can also cause damage to the baby’s skull and brain.
The biggest mistakes doctors make with regard to vacuum extractors are using too much pressure, or repeatedly trying the vacuum after it has popped off several times. The more times a doctor tries to use the vacuum, the more likely it is to cause an injury.
Forceps Risks
Forceps: Another tool used by doctors while delivering a baby is forceps. These are large tongs designed to go around the baby’s head to help pull the baby out. Injuries can occur from forceps in different ways. Forceps can cause nerve injuries to the baby’s face if put in the wrong position around the baby’s head. They can cause severe injuries to the baby’s neck if the doctor pulls to hard while the baby’s shoulders are stuck in mom’s pelvis. Forceps can also cause skull and brain injuries if the doctor squeezes them too tight.
What You
Can Do
If you think your baby was injured because the doctor was rushed and used improper technique, give us a call and let us see if we can help.
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