Does Breech Labor Increase Cerebral Palsy Disability?
Breech labor, where the baby comes out bottom or feet first instead of head first, raises some concerns during birth. It does not directly cause cerebral palsy on its own, but it can lead to problems that might increase the risk of this condition if not handled right. Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and muscle tone, often due to brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth.
The main worry with breech babies is oxygen loss to the baby’s brain. During a vaginal breech delivery, the baby’s body might come out first, which can briefly block the umbilical cord. This cuts off oxygen and raises the chance of brain injury known as hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, or HIE. HIE is a leading cause of cerebral palsy. If doctors spot fetal distress, like abnormal heart rates, they need to act fast, often with an emergency C-section within 30 minutes to restore oxygen.
Poor management adds to the risk. For example, failing to diagnose breech position early in pregnancy or labor means the mother might try a vaginal birth without knowing the dangers. Doctors should discuss options like a planned C-section, especially if risks are high. Not checking the baby’s position during exams or ignoring distress signs during delivery can lead to oxygen deprivation and brain damage that causes cerebral palsy.
Breech births also link to other birth injuries, though these are separate from cerebral palsy. They include brachial plexus injuries like Erb’s palsy or Klumpke’s palsy, where nerves in the shoulder or arm get stretched or torn. These happen from pulling too hard on the baby’s arms, head, or neck in a breech position. While these arm issues do not cause cerebral palsy, the same tough labors can harm the brain too.
Today, C-sections are common for breech babies to lower these risks. Studies show that proper monitoring and quick decisions prevent most problems. Still, if negligence occurs, like delaying a C-section or using forceps wrongly, it can result in lasting disabilities.
Sources
https://nybirthinjury.com/early-mri-brachial-plexus-surgery-indication/
https://www.cerebralpalsyhub.com/birth-injury/erbs-palsy/
https://www.nationalbirthinjurylaw.com/ataxic-cerebral-palsy
https://www.rwkgoodman.com/injury/birth-injury-claims/cerebral-palsy-claims/cerebral-palsy-guide-causes-symptoms-legal/
https://www.lblaw.co.uk/medical-negligence/birth-injury/klumpkes-palsy-claims/
https://www.grossmanjustice.com/new-jersey-breech-birth-delayed-section-lawyer/
