Causes and Effects of a Prolapsed Umbilical Cord Birth Injury

Childbirth can be an amazing, exciting, and wondrous process. However, with about 30% of all mothers experiencing some kind of birth complication, it can also be a very scary and stressful time.

While there are numerous types of potential complications and traumas that newborns may face, some are much more serious than others. A prolapsed umbilical cord is among the most dangerous and life-threatening of Michigan birth injuries.

During pregnancy, the umbilical cord represents a child's lifeline. Through this tiny cord, babies receive oxygen, blood, and nutrients. If the umbilical cord is obstructed at any time during birth, the results can be serious and sometimes fatal. Some of the most common causes of a prolapsed umbilical cord include:

• Premature rupture of a membrane (when water breaks early)
• Delivering multiple babies (i.e. twins, triplets, etc.)
• Breech delivery
• Unusually long umbilical cord

Because of the vital role that the umbilical cord plays in sustaining life, the outcomes of a prolapsed umbilical cord can be devastating. Some of these outcomes include:

• Permanent brain damage due to lack of oxygen
• Cerebral palsy
• Death

Doctors who diligently follow standards of care should be able to detect and prevent a prolapsed umbilical cord before it becomes a serious issue. Those who fail to do so can be held liable for any harm done to an infant. If your family has been affected by this kind of Michigan birth injury, you may be able to recover financial compensation.

Call a Michigan birth injury attorney at The Thurswell Law Firm for a free legal consultation and to learn more about your legal rights as a victim. Our Michigan birth injury lawyers are available 24/7, and can be reached toll-free at (866) 354-5544.