Minnesota Placental Abruption Lawyer
During pregnancy, the placenta is the lifeline for the unborn fetus. It transports oxygen, blood, and nutrients from the mother to the child. When the placenta detaches from the wall of the uterus, it is known as placental abruption, a very serious condition. Once the placenta detaches from the wall of the uterus, it can no longer pass the important life necessities to the child. Approximately 1 out of 100 women will experience placental abruption during pregnancy and while it usually happens in the third trimester, it is a possibility any time after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Preeclampsia, high blood pressure, nutritional deficiency, mature pregnancy, and use of smoking or drugs are all common causes of placental abruption. Although the condition is not always preventable, doctors must know how to respond to it. When they do not and you or your child suffers harm, it is important to speak to a Minnesota placental abruption lawyer.
Signs of Placental Abruption
A woman can experience a number of different signs of placental abruption. The most common of these include:
- Uterine contractions, particularly when they come one right after the other
- Back pain
- Tenderness, particularly near the uterus
- Discomfort
The severity of the symptoms of placental abruption, as well as the extent of the damage done, will depend on a number of factors. These include the location and size of the abruption, and the length of time between when the separation occurs and when the child is delivered.
Placental abruption that goes unnoticed or untreated will have devastating effects for both the child and mother. A baby could suffer brain damage if they do not receive enough oxygen, and could even suffer from conditions such as cerebral palsy. Women may experience shock and blood loss, organ failure, and the baby could be born prematurely or stillborn.
When is Placental Abruption Medical Malpractice?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to prevent placental abruption and once it occurs, the condition cannot be repaired. Still, that does not mean doctors cannot do anything about it. First and foremost, doctors must monitor women throughout their entire pregnancy to determine if they are at high risk of placental abruption. For example, if a woman has high blood pressure, a doctor should prescribe them medication and advice on how to lower their blood pressure.
Once placental abruption has occurred, doctors must know how to respond to it and treat the condition quickly. Sometimes, this means prescribing medication to stop maternal bleeding, particularly if the pregnancy is still in the fairly early weeks. If it is safe to deliver the baby, a doctor should order an emergency C-section or induce labor to prevent further harm. When these steps are not taken, parents may be able to file a medical malpractice claim that can help them recover their losses.
Our Birth Injury Lawyers in Minnesota Can Help with Your Claim
If you or your child has suffered harm as a result of placental abruption, our Minnesota birth injury lawyers can help. At Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC, our skilled attorneys can determine if negligence contributed to your injuries and will help you make it right. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
