Maternal Injuries Associated With Cesarean Birth

It is reported by the World Health Organization (WHO) that births via a Cesarean Section or C-section has reached a level of more than double the recommended rate. The WHO's recently-issued report also suggests that there is a direct correlation between the decline in health care quality once the rate of C-section births exceeds 15 percent. Once that threshold is reached, there is an increased risk of medical problems and birth injuries to both the mother and the newborn.

Although a C-section may be scheduled for non-emergency reasons, medical risks run higher as a C-section is not only a birth method, but also an invasive surgery as well. Normal procedures during a C-section involve an incision through the abdominal wall, underlying muscle, and the uterus.

The decision to give birth through this procedure may result in complications not only for the mother but for the newborn as well, and the decision to do so should be based on a comprehensive consideration of all applicable medical issues. Examples of complications that could arise, include:

Anytime one undergoes surgery there is an increase in risk due to adverse reactions to anesthesia. During a C-section, a spinal block or combined epidural-spinal block are commonly used, and how a patient may react is based on individual tolerance.

It is possible that, during a C-section, surgical injuries to other organs can occur. These types of injuries become more common if subsequent C-sections are performed.

Known in the medical community as endometriosis, this condition often presents with fever, vaginal discharge, and uterine pain.

Since surgery is involved, it is medically known that, during a C-section, more blood can be lost than during a vaginal birth. The risk of hemorrhaging also increases.

The development of blood clots, especially in the legs or pelvic region, are of concern as the danger of a clot traveling to a mother’s lungs (pulmonary embolism) can be life-threatening.

Infections are often more common following a C-section than compared to vaginal deliveries. The infection sites are commonly around the incision area and, even more dangerous, within the uterus.

Following a C-section, an mother often faces a higher risk of serious complications during subsequent pregnancies and deliveries. Problems involving the placenta may occur, as well as uterine ruptures along the scar line of a previous C-section.

If you have experienced ongoing or irreversible damage due to physician or medical staff error during a recent C-section birth, contact the skilled San Jose birth injury attorneys of Corsiglia, McMahon & Allard L.L.P. Our team understands that, while all medical institutions practice established safety procedures to minimize the risk of complications during a C-section, there are no guarantees, and complications still occur too frequently. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options.

• What Happens During a C-Section?
• C-section