When a child is born with a health problem, it can be heartbreaking and confusing for families. One of the most important things to understand is whether the condition is a birth injury or a birth defect.
Though the terms may sound similar, they are very different in cause, treatment, and legal responsibility. In this article, we will explain what birth injuries and birth defects are, how they happen, how they’re treated, and when legal action may be necessary.
Knowing the difference can help you better care for your child and protect your family’s rights.
What Are Birth Injuries?
A birth injury happens when something goes wrong during labor or delivery. These injuries are often caused by physical trauma to the baby during birth. In some cases, birth injuries happen because of medical mistakes made by doctors, nurses, or other hospital staff.
Common Types of Birth Injuries
Some common examples of birth injuries include:
- Cerebral palsy: Often caused by a lack of oxygen to the baby’s brain.
- Brachial plexus injuries Occur when nerves in the baby’s shoulder are stretched or torn.
- Fractures: Broken bones during delivery.
- Facial paralysis: Due to pressure on the baby’s face during delivery.
These injuries can be mild and heal over time, or they can cause long-term disabilities. Many birth injuries are preventable when proper care is given.
Common Causes of Birth Injuries
Birth injuries can happen for several reasons, including:
- Failure to monitor the baby’s heart rate
- Improper use of tools like forceps or vacuum extractors
- Delayed decision to perform a C-section
- Failure to recognize that a baby is too large for vaginal delivery
When a healthcare provider fails to act safely and an injury occurs, it may be a case of medical malpractice. Birth injuries are often the result of actions taken during labor and delivery, especially when medical professionals are involved.
What Are Birth Defects?
A birth defect is a health condition that develops while the baby is still growing in the womb. These problems are present at birth and are usually caused by genetics, environmental exposure, or unknown factors.
Common Types of Birth Defects
Birth defects can affect nearly any part of the body. Some common examples include:
- Heart defects: Such as holes in the heart or irregular heartbeat.
- Cleft lip or palate: Openings in the lip or roof of the mouth.
- Down syndrome: Caused by an extra chromosome.
- Spina bifida: When the spine doesn’t form properly.
Birth defects can range from minor issues to serious conditions that require surgery or long-term medical care.
Common Causes of Birth Defects
Unlike birth injuries, birth defects usually develop before the baby is born and are not caused by physical trauma during delivery. They may be caused by:
- Genetic conditions passed from parents
- Exposure to harmful substances (like alcohol, drugs, or certain medications)
- Infections during pregnancy
- Poor nutrition or lack of prenatal care
Doctors usually cannot prevent birth defects, although some risks can be reduced with good prenatal care. Birth defects are typically not caused by medical negligence. While birth defects can be serious, they are generally not the result of medical errors during delivery.
Moving Forward With Support and Understanding
Knowing the difference between birth injuries and birth defects can help you make informed decisions about your child’s care. Birth injuries often happen during delivery and may be caused by medical negligence.
In contrast, birth defects usually occur before birth and are often due to genetics or environmental factors. If you believe your child’s injury could have been prevented, speak to a qualified birth injury attorney in Georgia.
Contact Our Atlanta Birth Injury Lawyers at Malone Law Medical Malpractice and Severe Injury Lawyers Today
To learn more, call Malone Law Medical Malpractice and Severe Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free consultation. We can review your case, explain your legal rights, and help you get the support your family needs.
We proudly serve in Fulton County.
Malone Law Medical Malpractice and Severe Injury Lawyers
2 Ravinia Dr NE Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30346