When a newborn doesn’t get enough oxygen before, during, or after delivery, the consequences can be serious. This condition, called birth asphyxia, may lead to lifelong health problems. In some cases, oxygen loss results from medical mistakes that could have been avoided.
Common causes of oxygen deprivation
Oxygen loss often happens because of complications during labor or delivery. These include umbilical cord problems, delayed C-sections, or improper use of delivery tools. If a medical provider fails to act quickly or monitor fetal distress, the baby may suffer permanent harm. You expect the delivery team to take every reasonable step to protect your baby’s health.
Possible long-term effects
When a baby’s brain doesn’t get enough oxygen, it may lead to conditions like cerebral palsy, developmental delays, or seizures. Some newborns need lifelong care due to these complications. In North Carolina, when medical staff act carelessly, families may have legal grounds to seek compensation for medical bills, future care, and more.
When mistakes count as malpractice
Not every birth complication means malpractice occurred. But if a provider ignored warning signs or didn’t follow accepted medical standards, it may rise to that level. For example, if a delayed C-section caused the oxygen loss, that may count as negligence. North Carolina law gives you three years from the date of the injury—or one year from the date of discovery—to take legal action.
Why documentation matters
Medical records can show whether proper care was given. If monitors showed distress and the team didn’t respond, that’s evidence of a possible mistake. Keeping detailed records and timelines can help you better understand what went wrong and whether malpractice occurred.