When performed correctly, delivering a child via Cesarean section (C-section) is generally safe for both the mother and the baby, with minimal long-term side effects. However, attempting to give birth vaginally after a previous C-section can pose additional risks due to the scar tissue left behind by the initial surgery, which may increase complications in subsequent pregnancies.
In addition to providing high-quality care throughout the pregnancy, obstetricians are responsible for warning you about all potential risks and complications associated with childbirth. If they fail to do so, you may have grounds for litigation, which a birth injury attorney can help pursue. These claims are often more complex than other birth injury cases, so you should strongly consider specifically seeking the help of a Hartford vaginal birth after Cesarean delivery injury lawyer from Berkowitz and Hanna LLC.
The process of childbirth places substantial physical pressure on the interior lining of the uterus and the mother’s entire abdomen. Under normal circumstances, these areas typically endure the strain of childbirth without lasting damage. However, during a C-section, doctors cut through the uterus to deliver the baby through the abdomen. Even after doctors stitch the incision and it heals, the site remains weaker and more prone to tearing than the surrounding tissue.
Mothers who choose vaginal birth after Cesarean (VBAC) face a significantly higher risk of uterine rupture compared to those who have never had a C-section. This complication can deprive the baby of oxygen and nutrients, potentially causing permanent developmental issues. In these situations, a Hartford vaginal birth after Cesarean delivery injury attorney could assist in pursuing legal action.
As part of their standard of care, doctors assisting with pregnancy and childbirth must inform mothers about the potential risks of VBAC and obtain their consent before proceeding. Unfortunately, some obstetricians fail to meet this responsibility, either by downplaying the risks of the procedure or by failing to provide clear answers to the mothers’ important questions about their options.
Examples of medical malpractice in VBAC cases may include:
If a mother or her child suffers serious physical harm from a vaginal birth after a previous C-section due to inadequate warnings about the risks, they may pursue compensation for both short- and long-term losses affecting them and their family. A VBAC injury lawyer in Hartford can explain what damages might be recoverable during an initial consultation.
If you previously delivered via Cesarean section and are considering a vaginal birth for your next child, the decision is entirely yours. However, your doctors must fully inform you about all available options and the potential risks associated with each. If they fail to do so and you suffer serious harm as a result, you may have grounds for a malpractice claim.
A Hartford vaginal birth after Cesarean delivery injury lawyer can provide custom-tailored support throughout your legal proceedings. Contact Berkowitz and Hanna LLC today to schedule your free consultation and learn more.
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