More than 1.3 million cesarean deliveries were performed in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These numbers have increased since the 1990s.

According to a CDC trend report, in the early 1990s, cesarean deliveries accounted for anywhere between 21 and 23 percent of all births; in 2010, that number was up nearly 10 percent, to about a third of all births. If performed incorrectly, though, parents may consult Cleveland, Ohio medical malpractice attorneys if the mother or child experiences serious injury.                                                                                                                         

When a Cesarean Birth is Necessary 

Cesarean birth can be used during childbirth for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it’s necessary to ensure the health and wellbeing of the infant or mother, and other times, it’s simply because the baby is not positioned correctly for a traditional vaginal delivery.

Some reasons a C-section may be performed include: 

• the mother has an infection, such as herpes, HIV or chlamydia, that could infect the child through vaginal delivery;
• the baby is breeched or transverse, with its feet, shoulders or buttocks facing the birth canal;
• there are twins or multiple births involved;
• the baby is experiencing fetal distress or a lack of oxygen;
• the mother has a disease or condition that may be worsened through traditional labor;
• there is severe bleeding or placental issues that are threatening the mother’s life;
• the baby is too large to pass through the birth canal;
• labor is taking too long or stops altogether;
• the umbilical cord falls into the vagina, where it could be compressed during birth; and
• the baby has a birth defect.

If a cesarean birth is not performed when other reasonable professionals would have ordered one and it results in injury to the mother or child, parents may consult Cleveland, Ohio medical malpractice attorneys. 

Risks for the Mother During Cesarean Delivery 

According to a study in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, in 2.2 of every 100,000 C-section deliveries, the mother dies. For vaginal births, the number is only .2 for every 100,000 deliveries.

In addition to an increase risk of death, C-sections also pose these hazards to mothers: 

• infection, often where the incision is made or in the uterus or other organs;
• blood clotting, especially in the legs, pelvis and lungs;
• bladder and bowel injuries;
• adverse reactions to medications or anesthesia;
• endometriosis, an inflammation and infection of the uterus lining;
• adhesions, when scar tissue in the pelvis builds up and causes pain; and
• hemorrhaging and increased bleeding.

Having a C-section may also increase the risks during future pregnancies, making the mother more susceptible to placental issues, severe bleeding and more. Women who suffer injuries resulting from medical negligence may consult Cleveland, Ohio medical malpractice attorneys who can help evaluate the details of the case. 

Risks for the Baby During Cesarean Birth 

In addition to increased risks for the mother, cesarean delivery may also increase the risk of complications for the baby. In some cases, C-sections may be performed too early, causing the baby to be delivered prematurely. This can lead to low birth weight, underdeveloped lungs and more. 

Other risks to the baby include: 

• breathing problems, including abnormally fast breathing, respiratory distress syndrome and more;
• low APGAR scores, which assess the child’s overall level of health and wellbeing; and
• injury, includes cuts or bruises from the incision or delivery. 

Parents can talk to Cleveland, Ohio medical malpractice attorneys if their child suffers injury they suspect is the result of malpractice associated with the cesarean delivery. 

Consulting Cleveland, Ohio Medical Malpractice Attorneys 

Medical malpractice and negligence can often come into play when cesarean delivery is involved. Doctors and medical staff may be held liable for subsequent injuries and damages if they perform a cesarean section incorrectly or if they fail to order a cesarean birth when it’s medically necessary.

Families who have suffered because of malpractice or negligence in associated with a cesarean birth can speak to Cleveland, Ohio medical malpractice attorneys at Mellino Robenalt LLC to evaluate whether they have grounds for a claim. Injured mothers or parents of children who are injured could recover damages for medical bills, lost income, pain, suffering and other damages associated with the negligent cesarean delivery.