CDC study shows U.S. ranks high in birth injuries
The United States is one of the greatest countries in the world-but not for certain situations like delivering babies. According to a new study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), birth injures are on the rise. And maternal death is among the highest when compared to other developed countries.
The study looked at baby deliveries during a 9 year interval from 2000-2009. The data showed that the number of emergencies during these deliveries skyrocketed by 75 percent. The data also revealed that complications after delivery doubled during this timeframe.
Factors behind the statistic
A number of factors could be to blame for the increase in birth-related problems. The health of the mother plays a part. Mothers who suffer from kidney disease, diabetes or obesity are at an increased risk of complications when they deliver their babies.
Additionally, the mother’s birth canal may be too small or the fetus too large for delivery. Or, if the fetus is lying in an abnormal position prior to delivery, problems can arise.
Perinatal Asphyxia and Placenta Accrete can also occur. Perinatal Asphyxia happens when the baby doesn’t receive an adequate supply of oxygen and could be attributed to an abnormal genetic development of the fetus, exposure to certain drugs the mother was taking during incubation, or pressure on the umbilical cord. Placenta Accrete involves a deep attachment of the placenta and causes severe bleeding when removed and the woman often needs surgery to stop the bleeding.
Doctor negligence could also have an impact on this rising statistic. For instance, a woman could have prolonged labor that results in fetal distress and harm to the baby because of delayed intervention by a medical professional. Brain damage, cerebral palsy or still birth can happen as a result.
Doctors that perform risky Caesarian section, or C-sections as they are known, could also contribute to the rate of birth injuries. A C-section is an alternative delivery method that involves a surgical incision into the mother’s abdomen to deliver her baby. However, this method typically involves high blood loss and increases the risk of infection and problems post-delivery for both the mother and baby.
Proactive measures to reduce hospital birth injuries
However, experts in the medical field are taking proactive measures as a result of the new data to help reduce the occurrences of birth injuries. Better training and improved safety procedures have been implemented in various hospitals for those assisting in birth deliveries. Some hospitals employ actual emergency reenactment drills to better prepare for situations when a crisis occurs during delivery.
However, some hospitals aren’t taking enough action to prevent birth injuries. If you or your baby have been injured during the birthing process, speaking with a knowledgeable birth injury attorney is advised.