Shoulder dystocia occurs in approximately one percent of childbirths. Sometimes during delivery, the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck under the mother’s pubic bone. In one out of every thousand births, the doctor might damage the brachial plexus, a sensitive bundle of nerves near the neck and shoulders. Brachial plexus injuries can lead to life-long complications like loss of limb control or Erb’s palsy.
PeriGen, a medical device company, is launching the “Start the Conversation” campaign to spread awareness of shoulder dystocia and help mothers recognize and prevent risk factors.
Shoulder Dystocia Risk Factors
- Diabetes
- Maternal obesity or weight gain
- Fetal macrosomia (a.k.a. big baby syndrome)
Research has found that 70 percent of shoulder dystocia incidents occur alongside macrosomia. Generally, babies who weigh more, stay in the womb longer and come from overweight moms are more at risk of shoulder dystocia.
PeriGen offers a web-based tool that allows both the patient and the doctor to assess the risk factors and decide the best course of action.
If your doctor failed to warn you about shoulder dystocia or advised against a cesarean section, you could seek justice if your child was born with a disability resulting from shoulder dystocia. Contact our attorneys today for a free consultation.
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – birth trauma attorneys
