If a baby does not receive enough oxygen before, during or after the labor and delivery process then they may suffer from hypoxia. Not every Albuquerque baby born with hypoxia will develop the sometimes serious and life-long complications that this often preventable birth injury can impose, but those who do run the risk of suffering from life-altering conditions. This post will generally discuss some of the factors that may suggest that a baby will suffer from hypoxia as well as possible health issues that may result from a lack of oxygen. This post does not provide any medical or legal advice to its readers and individuals with questions about this topic should consult with the appropriate legal professionals.
Complications present before and during labor and delivery can heighten the risk that a baby will suffer from hypoxia. For example, damage to the umbilical cord or placenta may cause a baby to suffer stress inter utero and be deprived of oxygen. Also, physical conditions present in a baby such as congenital heart disease or brain blood vessel abnormalities may raise their risk of hypoxia and related complications.
Though medical professionals cannot prepare for every possible labor and delivery emergency, in many cases proper monitoring and care prior to and during labor can illuminate possible issues that could increase a baby’s chances of suffering from hypoxia. A baby who suffers moderate to severe oxygen deprivation may suffer permanent brain damage and may require support for the rest of their life.
Doctors who carefully monitor their patients and take immediate action to treat babies born with hypoxia can often prevent serious complications from occurring. However, those medical practitioners who fail in their duties to their patients may be open to claims of medical malpractice for the birth injuries that result from their negligence.