Maryland Unnecessary C-Section Malpractice Lawsuit
While many pregnant women aim for a vaginal birth, sometimes it is not possible. C-sections are often needed for emergency situations. In fact, more than 30% of births are via C-section.
However, not all C-section births are necessary. Many mothers undergo unnecessary C-sections when their doctors misdiagnose a medical condition or fail to provide expectant parents with all the information they need to make an informed decision about C-sections. Even if a C-section is necessary, there are situations in which it can get botched, resulting in devastating injuries to both the baby and mother.
Unnecessary surgeries are a common type of medical malpractice area, and C-sections are one of the most common types of unnecessary surgeries. Have you or your baby been affected? The Maryland birth injury lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman will assess your case and let you know how you can get compensation or damages caused by an unnecessary C-section.
When is a C-Section Considered Medical Malpractice?
Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider fails to meet the generally accepted standard of care and is negligent through action or inaction. Medical malpractice can also occur if a patient is not adequately informed of risks involved with a surgical procedure or treatment.
What this means is that a doctor must obtain “informed consent” from the patient in order to proceed with a procedure. The doctor is required to explain all risks associated with the procedure, including all side effects and complications. The doctor must also determine if the procedure is a safe option based on the patient’s overall health.
If a doctor recommends a C-section without demonstrating the need for one, the patient does not have enough information to give informed consent. This means that if a doctor proceeds with one, it could constitute medical malpractice.
Risks to the Baby
C-sections can be lifesaving when there are complications involved during natural childbirth, such as fetal distress, abnormal infant positioning, and prolonged labor. However, the fact remains that babies born via C-sections face risks that babies born vaginally do not face, and parents need to be fully informed about all the risks involved. They include:
- Weakened immune system
- Variances in hormone level
- Heightened risk of asthma or allergies
- Poor regulation of body temperature
Risks to the Mother
Mothers who give birth through C-sections also face many risks, such as the following:
- Increased risk of injury or death
- Infections
- Postpartum depression
- More lengthy recovery period compared to natural childbirth
- Excessive fatigue even a year after birth
Contact Us Today
While C-sections are only done when necessary, they come with risks. When a patient is not aware of these risks or the mother or baby suffered injuries due to the doctor’s negligence, they can file a medical malpractice claim.
The personal injury lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman can help you sue for damages. Schedule a free consultation with our office by calling 410-998-3600.
