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Skilled Maternity Injury Lawyer: Protecting Mothers and Babies in Legal Cases

Maternal mortality is rising in the United States. A maternal death is defined by the World Health Organization as death occurring while a woman is pregnant or within 42 days of termination of a pregnancy (regardless of the term of pregnancy). Data from 2019 shows that upwards of 80%, of 4 of every 5, of pregnancy-related deaths were preventable. The majority of maternal deaths occurred postpartum and include such causes as mental health conditions and self-treatment (substance use), hemorrhage (excessive bleeding), heart and cardiac conditions (embolism, cardiomyopathy, and high blood pressure), and infection. 

Prevention and treatment are only effective if pregnant patients are screened for potential complications. It is critical for health care providers to ask their patients if they are or plan to become pregnant so that treatment decisions and referrals to resources can be made in an informed manner. Follow up care after pregnancy is also crucial, including coordination for referrals and community support services. 

For comprehensive legal support, contact Erin Marshall Law, a distinguished Maternity Injury law firm.

Understanding Maternity and Perinatal Injury

When it comes to perinatal/maternity injuries, it is important to recognize the potential risks and consequences that undiagnosed or untreated health conditions or trauma during pregnancy can have on both the mother and fetus. These injuries can vary in severity, from mild to life-threatening, requiring immediate evaluation and treatment to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the unborn child.

Leading health conditions causing maternal death include mental health conditions (including suicide and substance use disorder), excessive bleeding, cardiac and coronary conditions, infection, blood clots, disease of the heart muscle, and high blood pressure (hypertensive disorder). Approximately half of all maternal deaths were caused by mental health conditions and hemorrhage (bleeding).

For experienced legal guidance on handling such cases, contact our dedicated maternity injury lawyers.

Some common traumatic maternity injuries that can occur include pelvic fractures, placental abruption, and uterine rupture, each carrying their own set of risks for the mother and fetus. Pelvic fractures, for instance, can directly impact the fetus through direct injury, placental abruption, and maternal shock, highlighting the need for prompt medical intervention and care.

In cases of severe trauma, such as uterine rupture, the consequences can be particularly grave, emphasizing the importance of early detection and management. While uterine rupture is rare, it is possible, especially in instances where there is sustained force on a previously scarred uterus. This underscores the critical need for vigilance and thorough monitoring during pregnancy and childbirth to mitigate potential risks.

Understanding the complexities of  maternity and perinatal injury underscores the importance of prioritizing maternal health and well-being throughout the pregnancy journey. By recognizing and addressing these risks early on, healthcare providers can work towards minimizing adverse outcomes and safeguarding the health of both the mother and the fetus.

Common Types of Maternity Injuries

Here are some of the most common types of maternity injuries.

Physical injuries to mothers can occur either before, during, or after childbirth and may include:

  • Vaginal tears
  • Ruptured uterus
  • Postpartum hemorrhage
  • Psychological Injuries

Psychological maternal injuries to mothers can also occur either before, during, or after childbirth and may include:

  • Postpartum depression
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Long-term Health Implications of Maternal Birth Injuries

Maternal birth injuries can have long-lasting effects on health, emphasizing the need for proper evaluation and treatment to prevent complications down the road. Birth injuries to mothers can have significant long-term health implications, impacting their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. Conditions such as pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction are common consequences of birth trauma. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, decreased quality of life, and even long-term disability if left untreated. 

For legal support in addressing these issues, contact Erin Marshall Law, a trusted Maternity Injury lawyer team.

Moreover, the emotional toll of experiencing birth trauma can result in anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), further exacerbating the overall health burden on mothers. It is imperative for healthcare providers to recognize and address these issues promptly to ensure the long-term health and well-being of mothers after childbirth. Additionally, advocating for improved maternal care and support systems is crucial in preventing and managing birth injuries, ultimately promoting healthier outcomes for mothers and their families.

Common Causes of Birth Injuries to Mothers

The following are some of the most common causes of birth injuries to mothers. 

Negligence in prenatal care can contribute to birth injuries in mothers. Four in five (80%) of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable! Failure to monitor and address medical conditions or complications during pregnancy can result in unforeseen difficulties during labor and delivery. Inadequate prenatal care may lead to undiagnosed infections, high blood pressure, or other issues that can jeopardize the health of both the mother and the baby. Appropriate screenings, prompt diagnosis, referrals and treatment are critical for the health of both mother and fetus. If you have lost a loved one to a pregnancy-related death, meet with our maternity injury lawyers at Erin Marshall Law to ensure your family receives justice. 

Medical mismanagement during labor and delivery can lead to serious birth injuries for mothers. Mistakes made by healthcare professionals such as failure to identify and manage fetal distress promptly, incorrect administration of labor-inducing medications, or improper use of delivery instruments can result in complications like uterine rupture, excessive bleeding, or damage to the pelvic floor.

Mothers who experience preterm birth are at a higher risk of sustaining birth injuries. Premature labor can increase the likelihood of complications during delivery, such as vaginal tears or uterine ruptures. The premature baby may also require specialized care, adding to the stress and potential complications for the mother.

For those facing these challenges, a Maternity Injury law firm like Erin Marshall Law can provide crucial support.

Inadequate postpartum care can leave mothers vulnerable to complications and injuries after delivery. Lack of proper monitoring, delayed treatment of postpartum hemorrhage, or failure to address signs of infection can result in prolonged recovery periods, increased pain, and other health issues for the mother.

Exposure to defective drugs or the use of faulty medical devices during pregnancy, labor, or postpartum care can pose serious risks to mothers. Complications arising from the use of unsafe medications or faulty devices can lead to injuries such as organ damage, infections, or adverse reactions that impact the overall health and well-being of the mother.

Contact an Experienced New Mexico Maternity Injury Lawyer

If you or a loved one has experienced a maternity injury, seeking legal assistance is important in order to fully understand your options and legal rights. By consulting with a knowledgeable New Mexico maternity injury attorney, you can explore your options for seeking justice and compensation that resulted from someone else’s negligence. The maternity injury attorneys at Erin Marshall Law have the expertise to navigate the legal system and advocate for your rights. Reach out for support in holding responsible parties accountable for any negligence or malpractice that may have led to your maternity injury. Your well-being matters, and taking action with the help of a skilled attorney can potentially make a significant difference in your recovery journey. Contact us today to learn more. 

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Erin Marshall Law | Maternity Injuries