When Are C-Sections Unnecessary?

Understanding Your Rights If You Were Injured During Labor and Delivery

Delivery via cesarean section (c-sections) has seen a dramatic increase over the past decade, with studies showing that the number will continue to rise. C-sections can be both necessary and unnecessary. They may be lifesaving and, at the same time, put a baby at risk of complications after birth. It is important to understand when c-sections are medically necessary and when they are not. 

At The Beasley Firm, we represent individuals who have sustained harm during pregnancy, labor and delivery, or childbirth. Our legal team has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for mothers and infants who were injured due to medical negligence or malpractice. If you or a loved one has sustained an injury during birth, contact our office at (215) 866-2424 for a free consultation. 

When C-Sections Are Medically Necessary

There are a plethora of instances where a cesarean section may be medically necessary. Generally, if a vaginal birth is considered unsafe for the mother or child, a doctor will order a c-section. 

Common reasons that a c-section may be ordered:

• Problems with the placenta (placenta previa)
• Maternal infection that may be passed to the child (HIV, genital herpes)
• Multiple births (twins, triplets, etc.)
• Gestational diabetes or maternal high blood pressure
• Abnormal position or presentation of the fetus

In addition, a doctor may order a cesarean delivery because of complications during birth. It is essential that a doctor or medical provider consistently monitor throughout labor and delivery for signs of a prolapsed umbilical cord, fetal distress, obstruction, or stalled labor. Diagnosing these conditions and ordering an immediate c-section may be critical to preventing a birth injury or other trauma during the delivery. 

When C-Sections Are Not Medically Necessary

The number of deliveries via cesarean section continues to grow across the globe. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), c-sections are the form of delivery in over 1 in 5 childbirths. It is believed that the number will continue to increase over the next several years, with 29% of all babies being delivered via cesarean section by 2030. 

As stated by the WHO, not all c-sections that are being performed are medically necessary, and unnecessary cesarean sections may be “harmful, both for a woman and her baby.” C-sections are complicated surgical procedures that carry a certain degree of risk. 

Risks associated with unnecessary c-sections:

• Heavy bleeding (hemorrhage)
• Infection
• Slower recovery times
• Blood clots
• Complications in future pregnancies
• Injury to the infant during surgery
• Respiratory issues

There are many reasons that a medically unnecessary c-section may be ordered. They take less staffing, less time, and generally result in a higher payout to medical staff. If you believe that your doctor ordered an unnecessary c-section resulting in harm to you or your child, you might be entitled to compensation.

What to Do If You Sustained Injury During Childbirth

Depending on the situation, you may be able to sue a negligent medical provider for ordering an unnecessary c-section. It is important to consult with an attorney as early as possible to determine whether you have a valid claim for damages. 
If you suffered harm during labor and delivery, contact our office immediately. Call (215) 866-2424 for a free consultation. There are no fees unless you win.