Injuries To An Unborn Child Are Often The Result Of Medical Negligence

Caring for a child before birth requires a high level of attention and medical knowledge. Fetal distress is a sign that something is wrong with the pregnancy. It is your medical provider’s responsibility to assess and treat any causes of fetal distress. Far too often, that care falls below the standards your doctor is required to meet.

The Law Offices of Robert G. Schock works with expecting mothers whose pregnancies were harmed by substandard medical care. Robert G. Schock has three decades of experience working with families affected by substandard medical care. If you have suffered a loss, we can assist in your recovery.

What Causes Fetal Distress?

Fetal distress is a catchall term for significant medical issues arising prior to childbirth. Severe fetal distress occurs in as many as one in 10 pregnancies. Medical teams typically detect fetal distress by monitoring the child’s heart rate. If this crucial step is not taken, severe fetal distress is more likely to occur. Potential problems with a pregnancy are numerous, including:

  • Breathing problems
  • Abnormal positions and presentation of the child
  • Multiple births
  • Shoulder dystocia
  • Umbilical cord prolapse
  • Nuchal cord
  • Placental abruption
  • Premature closure of the fetal ductus arteriosus
  • Uterine rupture
  • Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

How Do Medical Providers Treat Fetal Distress?

Although doctors and hospital staff members typically monitor a baby’s heart rate to detect issues, other signs that there are problems with the pregnancy include:

  • Lessened fetal movement
  • Vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Cramps
  • Premature rupture of membranes
  • High blood pressure
  • Meconium
  • Umbilical entrapment
  • Gestational diabetes

Not all symptoms lead to stillbirth, but they are signs that should be heeded and examined. There are several possible solutions that a doctor should consider if fetal distress is diagnosed, including rapid instrumental delivery or cesarean section delivery. If signs of fetal distress were ignored, improperly diagnosed or improperly treated, you may have a medical malpractice case. Consequences of mistreated distress can include decreased cognitive function, permanent brain damage and even death. The financial consequences include high medical bills and possible long-term care needs.

If you believe your pregnancy was harmed by medical malpractice or missed signs of fetal distress, our firm can help get you the recovery you need. Robert Schock is an experienced medical malpractice lawyer.

Contact Us For A Free Initial Consultation At Our Office In Oakland

Problems during pregnancy or labor are terrifying, and we trust doctors and their staff members to meet professional standards. Failure to meet those standards can have tragic and lifelong consequences. The Law Offices of Robert G. Schock serves those who have been harmed by the mistakes of medical professionals. If you believe your pregnancy was affected by poor medical care, call us at 510-922-0887 or contact us online to schedule a no-cost initial consultation. Our offices are conveniently located in Oakland . Street and lot parking is available.