Birth Injury vs. Birth Defect

Bringing a child into the world should be an amazing experience. However, the truth of the matter is, things can quickly take a turn for the worse. Birth injuries are, unfortunately, common and are often a result of medical malpractice. However, there is a difference between a birth injury and a birth defect. Knowing the difference between the two can grant understanding during an otherwise frightening situation.

What Is a Birth Injury?

A birth injury is sustained during the delivery process or shortly after birth. These injuries can happen for several reasons, a number of which include medical malpractice. Some medical malpractice errors that may result in a birth injury include:

Failure to monitor mother and child properly
Failure to respond to signs of fetal distress
Failure to monitor fetal heart rate
Failure to diagnose and treat infections or other medical conditions
Improper use of birth tools, including forceps and vacuum extraction devices
Negligent cesarean delivery
Improper medication or dosage

Some birth injuries can heal completely as time passes. Others leave mild to severe side effects that persist or progress throughout the remainder of the child’s life. Birth injuries can include:

What is a Birth Defect?

A birth defect occurs prior to labor, while the baby is still developing. These defects can be identified before, during, or after childbirth. Birth defects can occur for several reasons, including:

Genetics
Lifestyle choices
Certain medications and chemicals
Infections during pregnancy

There are different types of birth defects, ranging from structural defects to developmental defects. Some of the most common birth defects include:

Heart defects
Cleft lip or palate
Spina bifida
Down syndrome
Sickle cell disease
Cystic fibrosis

Birth injuries and birth defects are challenging realities that many parents face. If you and/or your child has experienced an injury that you feel as though may have been at the hands of medical negligence, contact Rob Levine & Associates, where a team of experienced attorneys will help you get the justice you deserve.