The umbilical cord provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby. However, umbilical cord problems in utero could deprive the baby of these necessary materials, and deprivation of oxygen could cause cerebral palsy.
Potential Umbilical Cord Problems in Utero
The potential umbilical cord problems in Utero that may cause cerebral palsy include:
- Umbilical cord prolapse, which occurs when the cord comes out of the cervix before the baby
- Nuchal cord injury, which occurs when the umbilical cord is wrapped around the baby’s neck
- A knotted umbilical cord, when the cord is tangled or has knots in it
- Contractions that squeeze or flatten the umbilical cord
Some of these complications may be more likely during breech deliveries, twin or multiple births, or if there is a greater than average amount of amniotic fluid.
Sometimes these umbilical cord problems are unavoidable. Doctors can’t prevent umbilical cord complications even with proper diagnosis and medical treatment.
However, medical professionals should recognize signs of umbilical cord problems in Utero and take action. A doctor, nurse, or midwife may suspect an umbilical cord problem based on ultrasound results or a change in the baby’s heartbeat. If a compressed umbilical cord is suspected, delivery by c-section or another medical intervention may be necessary.
The failure to recognize an umbilical problem and take appropriate action could cause a baby’s injury.
What to Do If Your Baby Has a Cerebral Palsy Birth Injury
You won’t know if your baby has cerebral palsy at birth. However, as your baby grows and doesn’t meet various developmental milestones, cerebral palsy may be suspected.
If your child has cerebral palsy due to medical negligence, we encourage you to contact our Kentucky cerebral palsy birth injury attorneys for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced birth injury law firm can fight for your child’s fair financial recovery of medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, physical pain, emotional suffering, and other damages. Call us or reach out to us through this website any time—24/7/365—to learn more.
Related Links: