Despite the many advances in modern medicine, childbirth is still risky. Approximately one-third of all births result in some sort of injury. While most of these injuries are minor, some can be quite serious.
Did you know? Birth injuries are one of the leading causes of infant deaths in the United States. Every year, more than 3,000 babies die due to birth injuries. However, some of these deaths could have been prevented if mothers and caregivers had been more aware of the risk factors and taken steps to avoid them.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), birth injuries occur in approximately 8 out of every 1,000 births. While some birth injuries are unavoidable, you can take steps to minimize the risk.
This article will discuss some ways to steer clear of birth injuries.
- Choose a skilled doctor
A skilled doctor can reduce the risk; however, if it’s bound to happen, it may occur even if you choose the best doctor in the world. Make sure to ask your doctor about their experience with childbirth.
No matter what you do, there is always a 10% chance that you can experience a birth injury. And in unavoidable circumstances, you may hire a childbirth injury lawyer to help you get the best care for your child.
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
Smoking and drinking alcohol can increase the risk of birth injuries. If you smoke, try to quit before getting pregnant. If you drink alcohol, abstain from drinking during pregnancy. However, even if you don’t smoke or drink alcohol, you can still experience birth injuries.
- Avoid excessive weight gain
Excessive weight gain can put unnecessary strain on your body during childbirth and increase the risk of birth injuries. Try to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy. However, if you gain a lot of weight, be sure to talk to your doctor about how best to deliver your baby.
- Avoid late-term pregnancies
Pregnancies beyond 40 weeks are considered high-risk and may increase the likelihood of birth injuries. If possible, try to schedule your delivery before 40 weeks. However, even if you reach 41 or 42 weeks, there is still a good chance that your baby can be delivered safely.
- Avoid labor induction
Labor induction can increase the risk of birth injuries, such as cesarean section and vacuum extraction. If possible, wait for labor to start naturally. However, if you need to be induced, make sure you are monitored carefully.
- Avoid assisted delivery
Assisted delivery (such as using forceps or a vacuum extractor) can increase the risk of birth injuries. If possible, let nature take its course. Still, if you do need to use assisted delivery, make sure that it is performed by a skilled professional.
- Avoid a premature birth
Premature births are riskier than full-term births and can increase the risk of birth injuries. If possible, try to carry your baby to full term. However, even if your baby is born prematurely, there is still a good chance that they will be healthy.
- Avoid cesarean section
Cesarean sections are riskier than vaginal births and can increase the risk of birth injuries. If possible, have a vaginal delivery. But, if a cesarean section is necessary, ensure that you are monitored carefully.
- Avoid excessive pushing
Pushing too hard can cause birth injuries, such as uterine rupture and perineal lacerations. Try to let your body go and not drive if you don’t feel the need.
- Get a good night’s sleep
A good night’s sleep can help you stay alert and focused while giving birth. Make sure to get plenty of rest before your due date.
- Stay calm and relaxed
Staying calm and relaxed during childbirth will help reduce the chances of any dangers while giving birth. Make sure to take deep breaths and try to relax your body.
- Get timely prenatal care
One of the best ways to avoid birth injuries is to get timely prenatal care. Regular check-ups with your doctor can help identify potential problems before they become serious.
- Trust your instincts
If you feel that something is wrong, trust your instincts and talk to your doctor. Make sure you get the help you need before it’s too late. Unfortunately, despite best efforts, birth injuries can still happen. So, if you or your child experiences a birth injury, seek medical help right away.
- Seek medical help right away
Delaying treatment can increase the risk of serious complications. However, even with prompt treatment, some accidents during labor can still be fatal or cause lifelong disability.
- Stay positive
Try to stay positive during labor. Even if something goes wrong, you can prevent it from further damage by acting calmly with good treatment adherence following a birth injury. Thinking rationally can likely lead to a full recovery.
Final Words
You can avoid birth injuries by following these 15 tips and, ultimately, reduce your risks of any unforeseen circumstances during labor. Even if you suffer from medical negligence during childbirth, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away. Contact a childbirth injury lawyer for legal advice and compensation if your child has suffered a birth injury.
