When a baby is diagnosed with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy, or HIE, or cerebral palsy, CP, parents often wonder what went wrong during labor and delivery. One of the most concerning factors is the role of excessive contractions, a complication that, when not properly managed, can have devastating consequences. The dangerous link between excessive contractions, HIE, and CP is a reality that every parent should understand.
What Are Excessive Contractions?
During labor, contractions are a natural part of the process, helping the baby move through the birth canal. However, when contractions become too frequent or too strong, a condition known as tachysystole can deprive the baby of oxygen. This happens because the breaks between contractions, which allow the baby to recover oxygen, are shortened or eliminated. Without these breaks, the baby’s oxygen supply drops, increasing the risk of HIE, a brain injury caused by oxygen deprivation.
How Excessive Contractions Lead to HIE and CP
The dangerous link between excessive contractions, HIE, and CP lies in the chain of events that occur when oxygen levels fall. HIE occurs when the brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow, leading to cell damage. For some babies, this damage results in cerebral palsy, a lifelong condition that affects movement, muscle control, and coordination. The use of Pitocin, a medication often given to speed up labor, can sometimes cause contractions to become excessive. When medical professionals fail to monitor the baby’s heart rate or adjust Pitocin levels, the risk of HIE and CP increases significantly. Proper monitoring and timely intervention are essential to prevent these outcomes.
What Can Parents Do?
If your child has been diagnosed with HIE or CP, and you suspect excessive contractions played a role, it’s important to seek answers. Understanding what happened during labor and delivery can help you determine whether medical negligence contributed to your child’s condition. By exploring your legal options, you can hold those responsible accountable and secure the resources your child needs for their future. To speak with me further regarding questions surrounding your baby’s HIE and CP injuries, reach out to me at my contact information below.
Marcus B. Boston, Esq.
9701 Apollo Dr. Suite 100
Largo, Maryland 20774
301-850-4832
1-833-4 BABY HELP
