It’s not new information that C-sections come with risks like any surgery. However, when doctors wait too long to perform a needed cesarean delivery, they turn what could have been a planned procedure into a rushed emergency. This rush increases the chances of mistakes that could hurt both you and your baby.
Dangers of unnecessary delays
Waiting too long for a needed C-section can lead to severe birth injuries.
For your baby, oxygen deprivation is one of the worst risks—potentially causing cerebral palsy, brain damage or learning disabilities. The longer the delay, the higher the chance of permanent brain damage.
Mothers face serious risks, too. You can suffer from a torn uterus, heavy bleeding and infection. These problems can lead to emergency removal of the uterus or even death.
Red flags during labor and delivery
There are important warning signs that tell your medical team a C-section is necessary:
- Abnormal baby heart rate showing distress
- Umbilical cord coming out first or getting squeezed
- Placenta separating from the uterus too early
- Labor that stops progressing despite good contractions
- Dangerous high blood pressure or heavy bleeding
If any of these happened during your delivery and led to birth injuries to you or your baby, you may file injury claims. From a legal standpoint, doctors who ignore warning signs and delay C-sections may commit medical malpractice.
Taking action after birth injuries
Regular checkups during pregnancy and in-depth talks with your doctor help prepare for possible problems. While unnecessary C-sections have their risks, these usually cause less harm than the serious injuries that happen from delayed emergency procedures.
If you or a family member suffered harm because of a delayed C-section, Florida law protects your right to seek compensation. Consulting an experienced birth injury lawyer can help you determine if you have a case of medical malpractice on your hands.