A VBAC, or vaginal birth after C-section, can be a risky affair.
A Cesarean delivery involves significant physical and emotional trauma that leave very real, impactful scars. The scar tissue that heals over the surgical openings in a mother’s uterus and abdomen presents a weak spot. In a subsequent vaginal birth—an extremely pressurized event—that weak spot can tear apart in an extremely dangerous event known as uterine rupture.
Uterine Ruptures and Associated Birth Injuries for Mother and Child
Of the many scary complications that can arise during childbirth, uterine rupture can be one of the most consequential. If the uterine wall ruptures, the child inside could immediately lose their supply of oxygen. There are many adverse effects associated with even a temporary lack of oxygen, including:
And those are just some of the birth injuries for the child that may happen; the mother will also sustain painful injuries as a result of a uterine rupture. As a result, there are very specific guidelines that medical professionals must follow when allowing a mother to attempt a VBAC.
Potential Malpractice and Misconduct Leading to Birth Injuries
Both healthcare providers and prospective parents should be aware of the risks associated with VBACs—as well as the exclusionary conditions for the procedure. It’s not recommended that a woman attempt a VBAC if she is diabetic, if the birth in question involves multiples, or if she has blood pressure issues. If she decides to attempt a VBAC, a medical team must be on standby to perform an emergency C-section if necessary.
Unfortunately, there’s a lot that can go wrong with this series of events. If a tragedy occurs, you need to know how to learn precisely what happened. Your healthcare provider should be monitoring fetal distress, be prepared for emergency procedures, and follow all guidelines surrounding this risky procedure. If there is any question that your medical team did not toe the line, you may be able to pursue compensation for your pain and suffering.
That compensation may be entirely necessary for your future as you struggle to cope with and move forward from your traumatic birth injury experience. Charles H. Thronson, Attorney at Law, can help you work towards the support you and your family need. Call our firm today to learn more about what we can do for you.