Maryland Forceps Injury Attorney

Birth Injuries Caused by Improper Use of Forceps

When you go to the hospital for the birth of your child, you expect that the medical and nursing staff will have all the necessary skills to perform a delivery that is safe for you and your baby. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, especially where forceps are involved.

If you or your child was harmed from the improper use of forceps, the Law Firm of Michael H. Bereston is here to help you pursue justice. Our experienced birth injury lawyers represent clients in Maryland and throughout the United States with all types of labor and delivery malpractice claims. 

We’re ready to fight for you and your family. Call us now at (410) 220-6581!

Is Forceps Delivery Safe?

A hotly debated topic in the last few years is whether using forceps to deliver a baby is a safe option or whether it increases the risk of birth injury. Although the use of this device has significantly declined in the United States over the last 20 years, worldwide statistics show that injuries from forceps may be occurring at higher rates.

While forceps are generally considered safe for use during labor and delivery, there are still risks of injuries for both the mother and baby if the doctor performing the delivery does not use the forceps correctly.

Schedule a Free Consultation

What Injuries are Common with Forceps?

Forceps injuries are often caused by the misapplication of forceps, using forceps to rotate the baby or using too much force when attempting delivery. If done incorrectly, forceps can cause permanent injury to the mother and child.

Injuries to the Baby

Injuries to the baby may include:

• Brain damage from bleeding in the brain
• Skull fractures
• Eye trauma
• Facial palsy/paralysis
• Nerve injuries to the head and neck
• Seizures

Forceps marks on the face which may or may not be permanent can occur and may indicate underlying injury to the brain.

Injuries to the Mother

Mothers may also experience trauma when forceps are used during delivery. In a forceps delivery, the mother may experience:

• Difficulty urinating or incontinence
• Injuries to the bladder, urethra, or uterus
• Tearing
• Weakened pelvic muscles and ligaments

The use of forceps can cause permanent injury to either the mother or baby. Your doctor should let you know the risks involved before using them during delivery.

Why Call a Birth Injury Lawyer?

You and your child deserve to live happy and healthy lives, but unfortunately, medical professionals or doctors that act negligently may cause long-term damage during the delivery process. The Law Firm of Michael H. Bereston has been dedicated to protecting families affected by birth injuries for years and is prepared to take on your case.

To discuss your legal options with a member of our team, call (410) 220-6581 or fill out this short form to schedule a free, confidential consultation.