Welcoming a baby into the world should be a joyful and memorable experience. For most families, it is. But when something goes wrong during pregnancy, labour or shortly after birth, the effects can be devastating.
Birth injuries can leave mothers, babies, or both facing long term challenges. Many families are left wondering whether more could have been done to prevent what happened.
If you have concerns about the care you or your baby received, our specialist medical negligence solicitors can help you understand what happened. Call 0800 084 3992 or complete our online contact form for confidential advice.
What is birth injury negligence?
Birth injury negligence happens when the standard of care provided to a mother or baby falls below what would reasonably be expected of a competent healthcare professional, resulting in avoidable harm. This can occur at any stage. During antenatal checks, labour, delivery or post natal care.
Not every birth complication is preventable, but negligence may be involved when warning signs are missed, risks are not managed properly, or a delay in treatment leads to injury.
Common types of birth injuries
Birth injuries can affect either the mother or the baby. Some of the more common examples include:
For babies:
- Oxygen deprivation leading to conditions such as cerebral palsy
- Nerve damage, including brachial plexus injuries
- Fractures caused by incorrect delivery techniques
- Infections that should have been identified and treated earlier
For mothers: - Third and fourth degree tears that were avoidable
- Missed or poorly managed pre eclampsia
- Retained placenta
- Undiagnosed infections during pregnancy or after delivery
These injuries can range from temporary complications to lifelong disabilities.
How do these injuries happen?
Birth injuries can arise from several failings, such as:
- Slow response to signs of foetal distress
- Failure to escalate concerns to senior clinicians
- Mistakes during instrumental delivery
- Inadequate monitoring during labour
- Delays in performing an emergency caesarean section
When might a birth injury amount to negligence?
Negligence may be present if:
- The care fell below an acceptable standard
- The injury could have been avoided with proper treatment
- The mother or baby has suffered harm as a direct result
Proving this requires expert medical evidence, it is therefore essential to seek specialist legal advice.
We understand how emotionally difficult these cases are. Birth injuries don’t just affect health. They can impact family life, work, finances and long term wellbeing. Our role is to help families find answers and secure the support they need.
We work with independent medical experts to investigate what went wrong, gather evidence, and assess future care needs. Compensation can help cover therapy, specialist equipment, lost earnings, home adaptations and long term support for your child or yourself.
Most importantly, we guide families through the process with compassion and clarity.
Frequently asked questions
What is birth injury negligence?
It occurs when substandard care during pregnancy or birth causes avoidable harm to mother or baby.
Can I claim for my child’s birth injury?
Yes, if negligence caused the injury, a claim can be made on your child’s behalf.
What are common birth injuries caused by negligence?
Cerebral palsy, nerve damage, fractures, and untreated infections are common examples.
How do I prove a birth injury claim?
Medical records and expert evidence are used to show care fell below acceptable standards.
Is there a time limit to make a claim?
For children, time limits are extended. For mothers, it is usually three years.
What compensation can I claim?
Care costs, therapy, equipment, lost earnings, and long term support needs.
Contact our birth injury negligence solicitors
If you believe that mistakes during pregnancy, labour or after birth caused harm, our experienced team is here to support you. We will take the time to understand your circumstances, carefully assess your case, and explain the options available to you.
Call us on 0800 084 3992 or complete our online contact form to arrange a confidential consultation.
