According to a new study, premature and small babies born to mothers with preeclampsia during pregnancy are at increased risk for cerebral palsy.
Researchers analyzed data from about 850 children with cerebral palsy. Children who were both born moderately preterm or very preterm and whose mothers had preeclampsia had a significantly increased risk of cerebral palsy, if they were also smaller than usual at birth. Preeclampsia is a dangerous condition involving high blood pressure and protein in the urine. It affects 3 to 5 percent of pregnant women.
The results were the same after researchers adjusted factors such as the mother’s age, smoking during pregnancy, in vitro fertilization and the sex of the child.
Every Day, A Newborn Child is Diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy
These findings suggest that doctors should take note of early signs of a smaller baby in a mother with preeclampsia. In most cases, cerebral palsy is caused right before or during delivery if the fetus does not receive enough oxygen. Umbilical cord problems, uterine rupture and eclampsia may all be to blame for this lack of oxygen; but whatever the reason, it is imperative that the attending physician act quickly to protect the child from ensuing brain injury.
If your child has developed cerebral palsy, please contact a cerebral palsy attorney at our firm immediately so that we may advise you of your legal rights and get your family the financial compensation to which it is entitled.
