During a woman’s pregnancy, there is potential for the baby to grow
beyond the average size of seven pounds, eight ounces. When the baby weighs
more than eight pounds, thirteen ounces, the World Health Organization
and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists considers
them to be macrosomic.
There are numerous potential causes of macrosomia, including the following:
- Gestational diabetes
- Obesity
- Extra weight gain in pregnancy
- Post-term pregnancy
- History of macrosomia
During pregnancy, doctors must monitor potential risk factors to help determine
if macrosomia is a possibility. If they determine that a baby is above
average size, they must also make a determination regarding the possibility
of cephalopelvic disproportion, which is when the size of the baby is
disproportionate to the size of the mother’s birth canal. Failure
to do so can result in serious complications during a natural birth.
If the obstetrician suspects that the baby will weigh more than the average
baby and there is a potential for cephalopelvic disproportion, they may
opt to deliver the baby via cesarean section to help prevent injury to
either the mother or the baby. Attempting a natural birth when the baby
is over the normal size can result in a broken collarbone on the baby,
tearing of the perineum, traumatic brain injuries, Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy, and more.
These types of situations can lead to the baby having long-term damage
such as cerebral palsy. It is critical that the obstetrician pay close
attention when monitoring the mother and baby to determine if a cesarean
section delivery is necessary. Failure to do so may be considered negligence
on the part of the obstetrician and lead to lifelong injuries and conditions.
At Hampton & King, our
Houston birth injury attorneys understand the potential risks associated with macrosomia and how it can
impact both the baby and mother during labor. In many cases, women who
have a baby suspected to be macrosomic will give birth with very little
to no problems at all. Other times, it can have severe side effects that
could have been prevented.
We stand with our clients after a medical professional’s wrongdoings
have caused them or their babies harm. We take action on their behalf
because we understand the hardships that they are facing. It is our goal
to help victims of negligence pursue the compensation they need and deserve
after negligence has caused them severe harm.
Call us today if you or your baby were harmed due to failure to monitor for macrosomia.
We’re here to help you every step of the way.