Sacramento Birth Injury Attorneys Assist With Cases Of Birth Oxygen Deprivation and Perinatal Asphyxia

Skilled and determined legal representation for victims of negligence

Perinatal asphyxia occurs when a baby does not receive enough oxygen before, during or immediately after birth. Lack of oxygen can cause permanent damage to the brain and other vital organs, leading to lifelong disabilities. When this condition results from medical negligence, victims and their families can seek compensation for the harm suffered. At Mastagni Holstedt, APC in Sacramento, our personal injury attorneys are experienced in birth injury cases and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What can cause perinatal asphyxia?

Oxygen deprivation can be caused by umbilical cord issues, placental problems or difficulties during delivery. The longer the oxygen deprivation lasts, the more severe the injury. In some cases, brain damage, seizures, cerebral palsy, developmental delays or other long-term health challenges can result. 

Common factors indicating medical negligence 

Medical professionals must act quickly and appropriately to address risks that arise during childbirth. The following can be indicators of medical negligence:

• Failure to monitor fetal heart rate — A leading sign that the baby is experiencing oxygen deprivation is an abnormal fetal heart rate. Medical professionals must closely monitor the rate and take appropriate action if an aberration is detected.
• Delayed delivery — Failure to act quickly enough to resolve complications, such as a prolonged labor or a cord prolapse, often delays delivery, raising the risk of asphyxia.
• Improper use of delivery tools — Doctors who misuse forceps and vacuum extractors can cause oxygen deprivation.
• Failure to diagnose or address umbilical cord problems — A compressed, twisted or prolapsed umbilical cord can cut off the supply of oxygen to the baby. 
• Failure to act on signs of distress — Babies in distress during delivery display abnormal heart rates, decreased fetal movement or meconium in the amniotic fluid. Medical professionals must detect these signs and take immediate action.

Our attorneys thoroughly investigate the facts to ascertain whether substandard care during delivery caused or failed to prevent harm.

Signs and symptoms of perinatal asphyxia

. Some common indicators of perinatal asphyxia during the delivery process or after birth include:

• Lack of breathing or cyanosis — The baby may not start breathing immediately after birth or may appear blue or pale.
• Poor muscle tone — A baby with perinatal asphyxia may have weak or floppy muscles, indicating brain damage.
• Seizures — This can be a sign that the brain has been affected by oxygen deprivation.
• Failure to thrive — In the longer term, children who suffer from perinatal asphyxia may experience developmental delays, cognitive impairments, or motor function issues.

If your newborn exhibits any of these symptoms, you should speak with an attorney with experience in birth injury cases.

Seeking birth injury representation

If your child has been diagnosed with perinatal asphyxia, a skilled birth injury lawyer can investigate the circumstances surrounding the delivery, gather expert testimony, and help you seek compensation for medical expenses, long-term care and pain and suffering. A successful lawsuit can help provide financial support for the care and treatment your child will need throughout their life. 

Contact our experienced lawyers to discuss your perinatal asphyxia claim

Mastagni Holstedt, APC, with offices in Sacramento, Rancho Cucamonga, Pleasanton and Redwood City, represents clients with birth injuries, including perinatal asphyxia. To learn more, call us at or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.