The Potential Risks of a Long Labor at Birth
As your first labor pain stabs you in the back, you can’t help but wonder, “Will I have a long labor?” While you’ve researched the statistics on how long the “average” labor lasts, you also know that hours in labor vary from mother to mother.
So, how do you know if your labor lasted too long and caused health problems for your child?
That question can only be answered on a case-by-case basis. In general though, there are two factors that indicate potential danger during a prolonged labor:
- If your baby got “stuck” in the birth canal with no oxygen supply.
- If your water broke and your doctor didn’t make sure that you delivered within 24 hours.
Both of these extended labor indicators greatly increase the chance of brain damage to your baby. Brain damage is a key factor in the development of cerebral palsy.
See a caesarian section being performed.
When a Fever Isn’t Just a Fever: Preventing Injury at Birth
Coming down with a fever is bothersome and can ruin your day when you’re not pregnant. But when you are pregnant, a fever is no longer just a reason to miss work.
Instead, a fever during pregnancy is an indicator that something is going haywire and that you need fast medical attention. In fact, a temperature above 100.4° F could put your baby at risk for brain damage.
A fever generally indicates maternal infection, something your doctor must take very seriously. Some infections that could cause a fever and potentially harm your baby are:
- Bacterial vaginosis — Tell your doctor if you have unusual vaginal drainage or detect an unusual odor.
- Sepsis — An infection in your blood stream caused by a bacterial infection.
- Inflammation of the placental/umbilical cord.
- Chorioamnionitis — An infection of the uterus that causes your baby to be 4 times more likely to develop cerebral palsy.
Coming down with an infection while pregnant is frightening. Your doctor should take your body’s warning signs as a strong signal to investigate. Fast action can mean the difference between having a healthy baby or a baby with life long complications, including cerebral palsy.
These are only a few infections you can develop as a soon-to-be mother. Click here to learn more about infections while pregnant.
If You Had an Infection While Pregnant or a Prolonged Labor
Seek expert advice. It’s the only way to know if your doctor and medical team did everything possible to keep you and your baby safe and healthy. If your doctor failed you and your baby in any way, you may be entitled to financial help.
Contact 4MYCHILD today and see if your child is eligible for Benefits4Life.
