Obstetricians are fortunate to witness the miracle of life each time a baby is delivered. While giving birth is a common procedure, there are many complications that can arise and endanger the lives of both mother and baby. When a doctor or nurse fails to notice and respond to signs of distress experienced by mother or baby, serious pregnancy-related injuries and birth injuries can result.

One mother recently filed a medical malpractice lawsuit after her baby suffered a severe birth injury. According to the lawsuit, during the labor both the doctor and midwife failed to respond accordingly and with urgency when signs of fetal distress presented. As a result of the alleged negligence on the part of the defendants, the delivery of the baby was delayed and the baby was deprived of oxygen.

The baby was born with severe brain damage. Due to the severity of her injuries, the little girl will never be able to walk, talk, communicate effectively or enjoy a normal and full life. The girl's mother filed a lawsuit against both the doctor and midwife whose inaction she contends directly led to her daughter's injuries. The mother is seeking compensation in excess of $225,000.

It's often difficult to tie a dollar amount to legal matters related to birth injuries. No amount of money can repair the damage caused by the acts of a negligent obstetrian or midwife and make a child normal again. Monies awarded through birth injury and pregnancy-related lawsuits, however, can help parents and children cover medical expenses and account for the extra costs associated with caring for a special needs child.

Source: The Madison-St. Clair Record, "Obstetrician and Midwife Accused of Failing to Timely Deliver Infant," Kelly Holleran, May 2, 2013