Skip to main content

Exit WCAG Theme

Switch to Non-ADA Website

Accessibility Options

Select Text Sizes

Select Text Color

Website Accessibility Information Close Options
Close Menu
Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC Wais Vogelstein Forman Koch & Norman LLC
  • Nationwide Birth Injury & Medical Malpractice Firm
  • ~
  • Schedule A Free Consultation Today!

Minnesota Pitocin Errors Lawyer

Pitocin is a drug commonly used to help prolonged labor progress, or to induce childbirth. It has helped drastically reduce the number of cesarean sections required when the labor process fails to progress. Pitocin is usually a safe and effective medication when it is used in accordance with medical guidelines.

However, the drug does have side effects that can cause injury to the mother or unborn child when it is not used properly. It is important for parents to know the side effects of this drug so they can make an informed decision about its use. Parents should also know when improper use constitutes medical malpractice, to find out contact at Minnesota pitocin errors lawyer.

Risks Associated with Pitocin Use

A doctor may decide to use Pitocin to speed up or induce labor for a number of different reasons. Illness or infection in the mother may require early labor to reduce the amount of harm to the unborn child. When the conditions in the womb are no longer suitable for the fetus, Pitocin may also be used to encourage labor. Fetal distress is also another common reason for the use of Pitocin.

Regardless of the reason a doctor may decide to use Pitocin, they must still weigh the benefits against the possible risks. Improper use of the drug can cause a uterine rupture, placental abruption, and premature delivery. When a doctor administers the drug properly, the risk of these side effects can be greatly reduced.

Medical personnel must administer the proper amount of the drug, as too little or too much can have very serious consequences for the mother and child. The unborn child must also be carefully monitored, as any changes in the fetal heartbeat may indicate distress. If the drug is still administered after these signs are noticed, the baby could suffer from cerebral palsy or permanent brain damage.

Proving Medical Malpractice

When healthcare professionals decide to administer Pitocin to a patient and do not properly monitor the child or mother, there is a chance that medical malpractice may occur. Doctors are expected to provide their patients with a certain standard of care and when they fail to do so, injured individuals can hold them liable.

To prove medical malpractice in Minnesota, patients must obtain a certificate of merit. This is a document with a statement from a healthcare professional in the same field as the defendant. The professional must state that another doctor in the same position would have acted differently to prevent harm to the mother and child.

Call Our Birth Injury Lawyer in Minnesota Today

Pitocin is sometimes necessary to reduce injury but in some cases, it can actually end up causing harm. When that is the case and you suspect it was a case of medical malpractice, our Minnesota birth injury lawyer can help. At Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC, our skilled attorney can determine if medical negligence was to blame for your losses and can hold healthcare professionals accountable for paying the full damages you deserve. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

Share This Page:
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn
Skip footer and go back to main navigation