Does prolonged birth lead to cerebral palsy?
Prolonged labor, which means a birth process that lasts much longer than usual, can increase the risk of cerebral palsy in babies, but it does not always cause it. Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects a child’s muscle control and movement, often leading to issues like seizures, learning difficulties, speech problems, and trouble swallowing.[1] It happens due to damage or abnormal development in the brain, usually before, during, or right after birth.[2][7][8][9]
During a long labor, several problems can arise that harm the baby’s brain. One major issue is lack of oxygen, known as hypoxia. This can occur if the baby gets stuck, contractions are weak, the baby is too large for the birth canal, the mother’s pelvis is too small, or the baby is in a tough position like facing forward.[1] Without enough oxygen, the brain suffers, leading to conditions like hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, or HIE, which often results in cerebral palsy.[1][3][4] For example, if the baby’s heart rate drops or there is distress, and doctors do not act quickly with steps like stronger medications or a C-section, the oxygen shortage worsens.[1][3]
Infections also play a role in prolonged labors. If the mother’s water breaks early and labor drags on, bacteria can enter, causing chorioamnionitis in the mother and infections in the baby. These can spread to the brain, causing swelling, reduced oxygen, and cell damage that leads to cerebral palsy.[1][6] Other birth complications from long labors include shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulders get stuck after the head comes out, cutting off oxygen, or injuries from tools like forceps or vacuums used to help deliver the baby.[1]
Brain bleeding, called intraventricular hemorrhage, is another risk listed with prolonged labor effects, potentially causing lasting damage.[1] Low oxygen can also weaken the baby’s heart, leading to more brain injury and cerebral palsy symptoms like poor motor skills and seizures.[3][4]
That said, not every case of cerebral palsy comes from long labors. Many other factors contribute, such as preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal infections like rubella or syphilis during pregnancy, genetic issues, severe jaundice, or head injuries.[2][3][5][7][8] Complications of labor and delivery account for only about 5 to 10 percent of cases, far less than many people think.[7] Recent studies using MRI scans show that brain injuries from birth are common in cerebral palsy, but genetics often mix in, making causes complex.[8]
Doctors can help prevent problems in long labors by monitoring the baby closely, using drugs to strengthen contractions, breaking the water if safe, or opting for a C-section when needed.[1][3] Early action matters to avoid oxygen loss and infections.
Sources
https://www.childbirthinjuries.com/blog/prolonged-labor-effects-on-baby-complications/
https://cchp.ucsf.edu/resources/fact-sheets-families/cerebral-palsy
https://www.nationalbirthinjurylaw.com/what-causes-cerebral-palsy
https://www.sokolovelaw.com/birth-injuries/causes/
https://childrenscerebralpalsy.com/research-update-increased-prevalence-of-cerebral-palsy-in-extremely-preterm-infants/
https://www.orangehealthcare.in/uncategorized/severe-infections-in-infants-leading-to-cerebral-palsy-causes-early-signs-and-prevention/
https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/cerebral-palsy
https://cerebralpalsyguidance.com/2025/12/12/researchers-use-mri-to-diagnose-find-causes-of-cerebral-palsy-in-children/
https://www.dignityhealth.org/north-state/services/womens-services/maternity-care/fetal-conditions/cerebral-palsy
