The birth of a child should be a joyful experience, but when labor takes an unexpected turn, it can leave parents with unanswered questions and deep concerns. When labor takes too long and the baby shows signs of distress, the consequences can be life-changing. If your child has been diagnosed with HIE (hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy) or cerebral palsy, you may wonder whether prolonged labor played a role and whether more could have been done.
When Labor Takes Too Long And The Baby Shows Signs Of Distress
Fetal monitoring is designed to catch signs of distress, but sometimes these signs are overlooked or addressed too slowly. A “non reassuring strip” on the monitor may show slow heart rate recovery after contractions, decreased variability, or other concerning patterns. These are critical warning signs that the baby is struggling. When labor takes too long and the baby shows signs of distress, every moment matters. Delayed intervention can lead to oxygen deprivation, increasing the risk of HIE and long term conditions like cerebral palsy.
Were the Warning Signs Missed or Ignored?
Many parents later remember having a gut feeling that something was wrong. They recall watching the monitors, noticing hesitation from the medical team, or sensing a change in the room’s urgency. Yet fear often prevents them from asking difficult questions afterward. Were the warning signs clear? Was the response quick enough? Could an earlier C section have prevented harm? These are important questions, and seeking answers isn’t about assigning blame. It’s about understanding what happened and ensuring the best possible future for your child.
How to Get Answers and Help for Your Child
If your child’s diagnosis came after a difficult labor, you have every right to seek answers. Medical records can show whether delays or mistakes contributed to the outcome. A detailed review can determine if different interventions, such as delivering sooner, might have changed the result.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Legal professionals can examine medical records at no upfront cost, providing clarity without adding financial pressure. Your child deserves every opportunity for support, and understanding the truth is the essential first step.
When labor takes too long and the baby shows signs of distress and that led to your child’s injury, please know that asking questions isn’t wrong. It’s one of the most loving things you can do.
To speak with me further about your babies, HIE brain injury at birth you can reach me at my contact information below. Remember it does not cost you any money to contact me about your baby story.
Marcus B. Boston, Esq.
9701 Apollo Dr. Suite 100
Largo, Maryland 20774
301-850-4832
1-833-4 BABY HELP