When a child is born with an injury, the moment of their birth can quickly shift from joy to heartbreak. If you are a parent going through this, it is normal to question what went wrong or whether you did something that contributed to it. These questions can be overwhelming, especially when medical professionals hint that a mother “did not follow instructions.”
However, birth is complex. While expecting mothers are given guidance for a healthy pregnancy, most do their best under stressful and often confusing circumstances. Blame can feel like a heavy weight, especially when it is misplaced.
What really causes birth injuries?
Birth injuries do not always have one clear cause. In many cases, they stem from multiple factors. It is important to understand how things can go wrong during labor and delivery. The following are examples of causes of birth injuries:
- Medical missteps: Delayed responses to fetal distress, poor monitoring or improper use of tools can lead to lasting harm.
- Inadequate prenatal care: If providers miss or ignore signs of complications, issues may build over time.
- Miscommunication: Clear instructions during labor are important. If information is not shared clearly or in a timely manner, it is unfair to expect perfect compliance.
- High-risk pregnancies: Sometimes, underlying conditions or complications arise regardless of how well you followed directions.
What matters most is not placing blame on yourself. If you were not given the support, resources or communication you deserved, responsibility may lie elsewhere. Being present, asking questions and trusting your instincts are all part of being a good parent, even in the most difficult moments.
Every birth story is different, and so is every injury. If you are left with questions, know that you have the right to seek answers. When you are ready, it may be best to seek legal help for a new perspective on the situation, as it might bring the answers you deserve.