According to the CDC, a premature birth occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy have been completed. Premature births and low birth weight accounted for some 17% of all infant deaths. Premature babies that survive can experience significant health issues, such as breathing complications, digestive issues, and bleeding in their brains. Moreover, they can develop long-term issues such as developmental delay and learning disabilities.
Bobby Jones is an experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer that has experience representing victims in birth injury cases caused by a premature birth. Bobby Jones is a nationally recognized trial lawyer that has proven track record of holding healthcare professionals and hospitals accountable for medical negligence that causes injury or death.
Factors that Indicate a Baby May be Born Prematurely
Physicians have a duty to identify common risk factors that indicate that a baby may be born prematurely. This allows the mother to pursue available treatment options, as well as develop a delivery plan. Some common factors that indicate that a baby may be born prematurely include:
- The mother had one or more previous premature births
- High-risk pregnancy disorders such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes
- Issues with the cervix
- Heavy or unusual vaginal bleeding
- Blood clotting problems
- The mother has had an abortion in the past
- The use of drugs and/or alcohol during the pregnancy
- Genital or uterine infections
Some Examples of Common Premature Birth Injuries
When a baby is born prematurely, the following types of birth injuries may result:
- • Cerebral palsy
- Developmental delays
- Digestive issues
- Jaundice
- Respiratory issues
- Loss of hearing
- Loss of vision
- Death
Medical Malpractice in Premature Birth Cases
There are many ways that a physician can be negligent in a premature birth case. Some common examples of physician negligence include:
- Failing to identify high-risk factors for premature births
- Prescribing the wrong medications or failing to prescribe the proper ones
- Failing to treat symptoms
- Failing to place the mother on bed rest
Birth injury cases involving premature births are not always clear cut. The victim must show that the treating physician failed to provide a reasonable standard of care that caused the baby’s injury. An experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer can evaluate your case and let you know your rights and options.
Discuss your Case with an Experienced Greenville, SC Birth Injury Lawyer
An experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer can help you recover the compensation that you deserve. Bobby Jones is a compassionate and highly experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer that represents victims in cases involving premature births. Bobby Jones Law serves clients throughout the state of South Carolina with an office conveniently located in Greenville. contact us today for a FREE consultation to discuss your rights and options.