You trust your medical team to act quickly if labor takes an unexpected turn. Sometimes, a baby shows signs that delivery needs to happen right away. A timely C-section may help prevent a lack of oxygen and lower the risk of serious birth injuries. A delay at the wrong time, however, could lead to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy or HIE, a brain injury that may affect your child’s future.
Many parents ask why a C-section did not happen sooner and if faster medical care could have changed the outcome. Learning how doctors watch for problems during labor may help answer some of those questions.
What is HIE and how can oxygen deprivation affect your baby?
HIE happens when a baby does not get enough oxygen and blood flow before or during birth. The brain needs oxygen to work properly. If the brain goes without oxygen for too long, permanent damage may occur.
The effects can differ from one child to another. Some children have mild delays as they grow. Others may need ongoing medical care, therapy or daily support.
How do fetal monitors and Apgar scores reveal possible distress?
Doctors use fetal heart monitors during labor to check how your baby responds to contractions. A slow heart rate, repeated drops in the heart rate or other unusual patterns may show that your baby is in distress. Meconium, which is a baby’s first stool, in the amniotic fluid may also signal a problem.
After birth, doctors give an Apgar score. This quick test checks your baby’s heart rate, breathing, muscle tone, reflexes and skin color. A low score does not prove HIE. Still, a low score along with other medical findings may suggest your baby did not get enough oxygen during labor.
How can a delayed C-section increase the risk of HIE?
Some labor problems need fast action. Placental abruption, pressure on the umbilical cord or ongoing signs of fetal distress may mean a baby needs an emergency C-section. An avoidable delay could give the brain less oxygen and increase the risk of a serious injury.
Your medical records may also help explain what happened. Delays in responding to fetal distress, missing notes or a long wait between the decision to perform a C-section and the delivery may raise questions about the care you received. Florida law says health care providers generally must meet the accepted standard of care when treating patients.
Finding answers after an HIE diagnosis
An HIE diagnosis may bring medical bills, long term care needs and many changes for your family. If the facts support a medical malpractice claim, Florida law may allow you to seek compensation for medical expenses, future care, pain and suffering and other related losses.
If you believe a delayed C-section contributed to your child’s HIE diagnosis, our firm offers a free case review. We can review your medical records, explain your legal options in plain language and discuss whether your situation may support a birth injury or medical malpractice claim.