Forceps and Instrument Errors During Birth

A New Jersey Firm that Knows Forceps and Instrument Errors Can Cause Birth Injuries

Our lawyer-doctor represents women and children in obstetric malpractice claims

Childbirth should be a joyful experience for new mothers. Sadly, the negligent use of delivery instruments can instead result in a woman’s long-term pain and disability and may also cause serious injuries to her newborn.

Since 1976, Seigel Law has been helping those who suffered losses because of medical malpractice in New Jersey. Our firm handles birth injuries that occurred in hospitals throughout Ridgewood, Hackensack, Fair Lawn, Teaneck, Garfield, Fort Lee, Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, Elizabeth and Clifton.

Often, we find that obstetric problems originate from a doctor failing to listen and communicate effectively. Our lawyers, on the other hand, thoroughly answer your birth injury questions and clearly explain the legal procedures and potential outcomes. We recognize that this is a difficult time for you, and we show you the compassion you deserve and speak candidly about your options for recovery.

Why your doctor may recommend an assisted delivery

In some difficult deliveries, the obstetrician may use an assisted delivery, employing special tools — such as forceps — to guide the baby through the birth canal. The decision is typically made only when there are problems with the delivery, such as:

  • The labor is not progressing, despite the mother pushing for an extended time.
  • Immediate delivery is necessary because the health of the baby is in jeopardy.
  • The baby’s heartbeat indicates a problem.
  • The mother has a health condition that might trigger injury during prolonged labor.
  • The baby is positioned incorrectly in the birth canal.

Risks of forceps delivery to the mother

Forceps delivery poses serious risks to both the mother and the baby. For this reason, assisted delivery should only be recommended if the benefits outweigh potential complications to the mother’s health, such as:

  • Uterine rupture
  • Excessive vaginal tears
  • Perineum pain
  • Bladder and urethra damage
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Urinary and fecal incontinence
  • Weakening of muscles and ligaments of the pelvic floor
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Anemia

Risks of forceps delivery to the baby

During assisted delivery, the instruments may injure the baby, causing:

  • Facial injuries from forceps pressure
  • Facial palsy or muscle weakness
  • External eye trauma
  • Fractures to the skull
  • Bleeding in the skull
  • Seizure

Consult with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer about injuries you suffered during your pregnancy or labor

Seigel Law is committed to helping patients injured by medical malpractice — including during childbirth. Call our law firm at 201-444-4000 or contact us online to schedule your free initial appointment with our New Jersey lawyer-doctor. If your injuries prevent you from coming to our office in Ridgewood, our attorneys can visit you in your home or at the hospital. You do not owe us lawyer fees unless we recover damages through a verdict or settlement. We handle medical malpractice litigation on a contingency basis.