Dangers of Inducing Labor
There has been a trend in recent years toward more natural childbirth practices, and many expectant mothers hope for their labor and delivery to involve the least amount of medical intervention possible. And of course, virtually all parents-to-be simply yearn for a healthy child. Unfortunately, sometimes complications occur before or during labor, and doctors or other birth attendants feel that it is necessary to induce the labor. This carries additional health risks for both mother and baby, and must be considered carefully.
Learning the Risks
It is essential that parents are educated about the risks of inducing labor before they agree to this treatment. A competent physician will present these risks as well as the risks of not inducing labor. This allows parents to make an informed decision. The following are the risks of inducing labor according to the Mayo Clinic:
- Premature birth, if the induction happens before the baby reaches full term
- Lower heart rate in the baby, which has the potential to lead to a lack of oxygen in the brain
- Prolapsed umbilical cord, which is when the umbilical cord slips into the birth canal before the baby, and also carries the risk of the baby being deprived of oxygen
- Infection rate is higher for both mothers and babies in induced labors versus non-induced labor
These are just some of the risks when labor is induced. It is important for parents to know that there is a greater risk of birth injury with this medical procedure. Together with doctors and other healthcare workers they can decide on the best course of action for their case.
Contact Us
If you or your child suffered from needless complications following induced labor, contact the Chicago medical malpractice attorneys of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C., at 312-466-8200 to speak to a caring and experienced lawyer about your legal options.