Jill Kolodner | November 1, 2024 | Birth Injuries
Bringing a new baby into the world is a joyous occasion, but sometimes unexpected challenges arise. Understanding the difference between birth injuries and birth defects is important for parents in Maryland. These terms may sound similar, but they refer to different issues that can affect a newborn’s health.
What Are Birth Defects?
Birth defects are problems that develop while the baby is still in the womb, often during the first three months of pregnancy. They can affect how the baby’s body forms or functions. Some common birth defects include heart problems, cleft lip or palate, and spinal issues like spina bifida.
Causes of birth defects include:
- Genetic factors: Inherited genes from one or both parents can lead to certain birth defects.
- Environmental exposure: Contact with harmful substances like alcohol, drugs, or certain medications during pregnancy.
- Unknown reasons: Sometimes, doctors cannot determine the exact cause of a birth defect.
Many birth defects happen early in pregnancy, sometimes before a woman knows she’s pregnant. While not all birth defects can be prevented, proper prenatal care and avoiding harmful substances can reduce the risk.
What Are Birth Injuries?
Birth injuries occur during labor and delivery. They result from physical stress or trauma as the baby is born. Common birth injuries include bruises, broken bones, nerve damage, and brain injuries due to lack of oxygen.
Examples of birth injuries include:
- Bruising or swelling: Pressure during delivery can cause temporary marks on the baby’s body.
- Broken bones: Difficult deliveries may result in fractures, especially of the collarbone.
- Nerve damage: Injuries like Erb’s palsy affect movement in the arms or shoulders.
- Brain injuries: If the baby doesn’t get enough oxygen during birth, it can lead to conditions like cerebral palsy.
Many birth injuries heal over time, but some may lead to long-term health issues. Proper medical care during delivery can often prevent or mitigate these injuries.
The Key Differences Between Birth Defects and Birth Injuries
Birth defects and birth injuries differ in three primary regards: timing, causes, and prevention.
In terms of timing:
- Birth defects develop during pregnancy.
- Birth injuries occur during labor and delivery.
Regarding their causes:
- Birth defects are often linked to genetics or exposure to harmful substances.
- Birth injuries usually result from complications during birth or medical procedures.
They differ with prevention in that:
- Some birth defects can be prevented with good prenatal care, but not all.
- Many birth injuries are preventable with careful medical attention during delivery.
Understanding these differences helps parents know what to expect and how to support their child’s health.
Implications for Maryland Parents
In Maryland, knowing whether your child’s condition is a birth defect or a birth injury is important for several reasons:
- Medical care: Different conditions require specific treatments and interventions.
- Support services: Identifying the issue helps connect you with the right resources and support groups.
- Future planning: Understanding your child’s needs assists in making informed decisions about their care and education.
Being proactive as much as you reasonably can is generally the best course of action you can take.
What Can Parents Do To Help Prevent Birth Injuries and Defects?
There are certain steps parents can take to help prevent injuries from occurring; they can:
- Seek regular prenatal care: Early and consistent check-ups can help detect potential issues.
- Avoid harmful substances: Stay away from alcohol, drugs, and certain medications during pregnancy.
- Communicate with healthcare providers: Ask questions and share any concerns with your doctor.
- Follow medical advice: Adhere to guidelines provided by your healthcare team to support a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
While these actions can’t prevent every birth injury or defect from occurring, they can help ensure that you’re doing everything in your power.
Contact an Experienced Maryland Birth Injury Lawyer If You Need Legal Help
Both birth defects and birth injuries can present challenges, but understanding their differences is the first step in helping your child. Birth defects happen during pregnancy and are often related to genetics or environmental factors. Birth injuries occur during delivery and may result from complications or medical errors.
By staying informed and working closely with healthcare professionals, Maryland parents can provide the best care for their children and address any issues promptly.
If you think your baby suffered harm due to medical malpractice, contact an experienced attorney at WGK Personal Injury Lawyers for legal guidance.
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers
14 W Madison St, Baltimore, MD 21201, United States
(410) 837-2144
WGK Personal Injury Lawyers – Dundalk Office
7329 Holabird Ave Suite 3, Dundalk, MD 21222
By appointment only
(410) 970-3080
