Birth Injury Lawyer Pennsylvania

Baby's hand in adult's hand

The birth of a child should be a joyous occasion, but when medical negligence leads to a birth injury, families are left facing devastating consequences. If your child suffered harm due to a preventable medical error, Kingbird Legal is here to help. Our dedicated birth injury lawyer fights for families across Pennsylvania, holding negligent healthcare providers accountable and seeking the compensation needed for long-term care and recovery. You don’t have to navigate this difficult time alone. Call Kingbird Legal at 484-289-4880 today for a free consultation and let us advocate for your child’s future.

How to Recognize Birth Injuries and What Steps to Take in Pennsylvania

A birth injury refers to any physical harm caused to a baby during the process of labor or delivery. These injuries can range from mild to severe and may occur due to complications during birth. While some birth injuries are the result of natural factors, others happen because of medical errors or improper care from healthcare professionals.

Some birth injuries are temporary and resolve over time, while others may result in lifelong conditions that require continuous treatment and support. Identifying the injury early on is critical, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes for the child.

Common Types of Birth Injuries

There are several types of birth injuries, each with its own causes, symptoms, and long-term effects. Below are some of the most common birth injuries that can occur during delivery:

1. Brachial Plexus Injury

A brachial plexus injury occurs when the network of nerves controlling the arm and hand is damaged during delivery. This injury is often the result of excessive pulling or improper use of force during a difficult delivery. A baby may experience weakness, limited movement, or even paralysis in the affected arm.

Signs to look for: Limited movement in one arm, difficulty lifting the arm, or noticeable weakness in one side of the body.

2. Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a child’s muscle tone, movement, and motor skills. CP can result from brain damage during delivery, often caused by lack of oxygen (asphyxia) or physical trauma to the brain.

Signs to look for: Delayed motor development, trouble with coordination or balance, or difficulty walking.

3. Fractures

Fractures can occur during the delivery process, especially in cases where forceps or vacuum extraction are used. The most common fractures are clavicle (collarbone) fractures, but other bones may also be affected.

Signs to look for: Swelling, bruising, or tenderness in an area, especially around the collarbone.

4. Caput Succedaneum

Caput succedaneum is a swelling of a baby’s head caused by pressure during delivery. This condition is usually temporary and resolves on its own within a few days. However, in some cases, it can indicate a more serious underlying issue.

Signs to look for: A soft, swollen area on the baby’s head, often seen after prolonged or difficult labor.

5. Cephalohematoma

Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between a baby’s skull and the periosteum (membrane covering the bone). It usually results from the pressure during delivery and often appears in cases where forceps or vacuum extraction is used.

Signs to look for: Swelling or a soft lump on the baby’s head that can be felt under the skin.

6. Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is a brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen during or shortly after birth. This condition is often caused by complications such as umbilical cord accidents, placental abruption, or delays in the delivery process.

Signs to look for: Abnormal muscle tone, trouble feeding, seizures, or difficulty breathing immediately after birth.

7. Nerve Damage

In some cases, nerve damage occurs during delivery, either from the pressure applied during a difficult birth or from improper use of delivery tools. This damage can affect different parts of the body, including the neck, shoulders, and arms.

Signs to look for: Weakness, lack of coordination, or pain in certain areas of the baby’s body.

How to Identify Birth Injuries

While the signs of some birth injuries are immediately noticeable, others may take time to develop. In general, parents should look for the following red flags that could indicate a potential birth injury:

  1. Delayed Milestones: If your baby is not meeting typical developmental milestones, such as rolling over, crawling, or walking, this could be a sign of a birth injury.
  2. Abnormal Muscle Tone: If your baby has tight muscles or is unusually floppy, this could indicate nerve damage or cerebral palsy.
  3. Swelling or Bruising: If you notice swelling or bruising on your baby’s head, arms, or neck, it may be due to an injury sustained during delivery.
  4. Difficulty with Feeding or Breathing: Birth injuries affecting the baby’s brain or body may cause difficulty with feeding, breathing, or swallowing.
  5. Limited Range of Motion: If your baby’s limbs seem stiff or unresponsive, this could be a sign of nerve damage, such as brachial plexus injury.

If you notice any of these signs or if you have concerns about your baby’s health after birth, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician right away. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your child’s outcomes and help you plan for any necessary care moving forward.

What to Do Next 

If you believe your child has suffered a birth injury, it’s crucial to take action right away. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Consult with Medical Professionals

As soon as you notice any concerning signs, contact your baby’s pediatrician or a specialist. They will conduct the necessary tests and evaluations to confirm whether your child has suffered a birth injury and determine the extent of the damage.

2. Keep Detailed Records

Document everything related to your baby’s condition, including doctor’s visits, treatments, medical diagnoses, and any symptoms you notice. These records will be crucial if you pursue a legal claim for compensation.

3. Seek a Second Opinion

If you are unsure about your child’s diagnosis or treatment plan, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion from a specialist. A second opinion can help ensure that you have all the information needed to make informed decisions about your child’s care.

4. Consult a Pennsylvania Birth Injury Lawyer

If your child’s birth injury is due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. A birth injury lawyer in Pennsylvania can help you understand your legal rights, gather evidence, and determine whether you have a valid claim. They can also assist you in pursuing compensation for medical bills, ongoing therapy, and pain and suffering.

5. Consider Future Medical Needs

Many birth injuries require long-term care and therapy. Be sure to plan for the future and consider any future medical expenses when seeking compensation. Your lawyer can help ensure that you account for these costs in your legal claim.

Speak with a Compassionate Birth Injury Attorney Today

When a preventable birth injury changes your child’s future, you deserve strong legal support to hold negligent medical providers accountable. Kingbird Legal is dedicated to helping families across Pennsylvania secure the compensation needed for medical care, therapy, and long-term support. Let us fight for the justice your family deserves. Call Kingbird Legal at 484-289-4880 today for a free consultation, and take the first step toward protecting your child’s future.