Can a Difficult Delivery Raise the Risk of Cerebral Palsy?
A difficult delivery can indeed increase the chance of cerebral palsy in a baby. Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect muscle control, movement, and coordination. It often stems from brain damage around the time of birth.
During a tough birth, several things can go wrong that harm the baby’s brain. For example, prolonged labor means the baby stays in the birth canal too long. This can cut off oxygen to the brain, a problem called hypoxia. Lack of oxygen leads to brain injuries like hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, which raises the risk of cerebral palsy. Babies may also suffer from low heart rates, infections, or low APGAR scores after birth, all signs of distress.
Forceps or vacuum tools used in hard deliveries add more risks. The pressure from forceps can cause brain bleeds, known as intracranial hemorrhages. These bleeds damage brain tissue and sometimes lead straight to cerebral palsy. The force might also injure nerves or fracture the skull, causing seizures or developmental delays later on.
Other delivery challenges play a role too. Shoulder dystocia happens when the baby’s shoulders get stuck after the head comes out, blocking oxygen. Breech births, where the baby comes feet first, or multiples like twins make things trickier. Premature or large babies face higher odds because their bodies are more fragile.
Not every difficult birth causes cerebral palsy. Many cases come from issues before birth, like genetic problems or mom using toxins during pregnancy. Still, doctors can help by watching closely, using medications to speed labor, or opting for a C-section if needed. Quick action often prevents the worst outcomes.
Signs of cerebral palsy might show up early, like stiff muscles, trouble feeding, or dragging a foot when walking. Some kids need braces or wheelchairs lifelong. Catching problems fast after birth gives the best shot at support.
Sources
https://www.firststepschiropractic.com/2025/12/25/forceps-delivery-complications-later-life/
https://www.childbirthinjuries.com/blog/prolonged-labor-effects-on-baby-complications/
https://www.beamlegalteam.com/blog/birth-injuries-in-multiples-why-twins-and-triplets-face-higher-risks/
https://www.millersternlawyers.com/blog/2025/december/can-birth-injuries-be-prevented-risk-factors-pre/
https://cchp.ucsf.edu/resources/fact-sheets-families/cerebral-palsy
https://www.nationalbirthinjurylaw.com/cerebral-palsy
https://andersenlaw.com/what-are-the-four-most-common-birth-injuries-infants-suffer/
https://www.sokolovelaw.com/birth-injuries/
https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/cerebral-palsy
