Seven Procedures During Labor and Birth which can cause Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a motor disorder that can occur either before birth, during labor and birth or afterwards. It is characterized by an inability to fully control motor function, particularly muscle control and coordination. It is a diverse and complex condition which ranges from mild to severe. Each case is as individual as the people themselves.
Depending on which areas of the brain have been damaged, one or more of the following may occur: muscle tightness or spasticity, involuntary movement; disturbance in gait or mobility, difficulty in swallowing and problems with speech.
1. If the child remains in the birth canal for too long it can result in a lack of oxygen to the brain.
2. An undetected prolapsed umbilical cord, which wraps around the neck of the child, can deprive the new born of oxygen.
3. Failure to perform a cesarean section in the event of fetal distress can also result in hypoxia.
4. Failure to respond to the mother's changing conditions during delivery, such as high blood pressure or toxemia, can affect the baby.
5. Failure to recognize and treat seizures following delivery could cause irreversible damage to the newborn.
6. Placental Abruption where due either to the mother's high blood pressure, medication or for any other reason the placenta separates from the uterine wall.
7. VAGINAL BIRTH AFTER SECTION (VBAC) A mother who has had a previous caesarean birth is at higher risk of uterine rupture. If the uterus ruptures, the baby must be born as soon as possible by caesarean section. Any delay carries grave risks for the baby and mother.
