Welcoming a new baby is typically a time of great joy, but occasionally, circumstances take an unexpected turn. Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), characterized by heavy bleeding after childbirth, can transform what should be a moment of happiness into a distressing experience.
Although legal matters might not be at the forefront of your mind during such challenging times, it's vital to understand that you often have recourse, particularly when your PPH is the result of medical negligence.
In such instances, you may have grounds to seek compensation for the financial losses incurred as a result of your PPH. This underscores the importance of reaching out to a skilled birth injury lawyer who has the knowledge, experience, and resources to navigate postpartum hemorrhage cases effectively.
What is postpartum hemorrhage?
Postpartum hemorrhage is abnormally heavy bleeding that can happen after a woman gives birth. It occurs when the uterus doesn't contract properly after delivery, leading to excessive bleeding. This can occur either right after childbirth, within the first 24 hours afterward, or anytime up to 12 weeks after giving birth.
While it's not common, it can be severe and sometimes life-threatening if not treated promptly. Factors like prolonged labor, placental problems, having a c-section, or complications during delivery can increase the risk of PPH. Doctors need to take the necessary precautions to significantly reduce the risks associated with postpartum hemorrhage.
Signs of postpartum hemorrhage
Postpartum hemorrhage can be a serious and life-threatening condition, and recognizing its signs is crucial for prompt medical intervention to prevent further complications. Some common signs of postpartum hemorrhage include:
- Excessive or heavy bleeding: One of the most apparent indicators of postpartum hemorrhage is a sudden and significant increase in bleeding after childbirth. If you notice that you are saturating multiple pads within an hour or passing large blood clots, it's a concerning sign.
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded: A drop in blood volume due to excessive bleeding can result in a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness. You may also experience a sense of faintness, which should be taken seriously.
- Rapid heart rate: As your body tries to compensate for the loss of blood, your heart rate may increase significantly. An abnormally fast pulse can be a sign of postpartum hemorrhage and requires immediate medical attention.
- Low blood pressure: A drop in blood pressure can occur as a consequence of severe blood loss. Low blood pressure can make you feel weak and may lead to fainting or loss of consciousness.
- Fatigue: Excessive bleeding can cause a rapid depletion of your body's energy reserves, resulting in overwhelming fatigue and weakness. This fatigue may be more pronounced than what is typically expected after childbirth.
- Abdominal pain: Severe abdominal pain or discomfort, especially if it is accompanied by other symptoms on this list, could indicate postpartum hemorrhage. This pain may be sharp, cramp-like, or continuous.
It is vital to remember that postpartum hemorrhage is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know experiences any of these warning signs after childbirth, seek immediate medical attention to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment, which can be lifesaving.
Suing for postpartum hemorrhage
Someone might consider taking legal action related to postpartum hemorrhage if they believe that negligence or substandard medical care contributed to the medical condition or its severity.
Consulting with a birth injury lawyer doesn't mean you're going to pursue legal action right away, but it's important to learn about your rights and make sure you have a clear understanding of your potential legal options.
Medical negligence can manifest in various ways in postpartum hemorrhage cases, including:
- Misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose: In instances where healthcare providers overlook or delay the diagnosis of postpartum hemorrhage, it often leads to additional medical complications and health issues.
- Unnecessary C-section: Performing a Caesarean section when it is unwarranted can disrupt the natural birthing process, potentially increasing the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
- Inadequate treatment or care: Failing to administer appropriate and timely treatment for postpartum hemorrhage or utilizing incorrect procedures or medications can exacerbate a woman's medical condition.
- Lack of monitoring or follow-up: Insufficient monitoring during labor or after childbirth can result in undetected or unaddressed medical issues related to postpartum hemorrhage.
- Procedural errors: Cases involving mishandled procedures during labor or delivery, which may cause or worsen postpartum hemorrhage.
Understanding the role of medical negligence in postpartum hemorrhage cases is crucial when considering legal action. A birth injury lawyer can provide guidance on your specific situation, helping you make informed decisions about the best course of action for your unique circumstances.
How a birth injury lawyer can help
If you or a loved one experienced postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) leading to complications from childbirth, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses.
The legal team at The Lancione Law Firm understands the complexities surrounding birth injury cases, including ones involving PPH. Having an experienced Ohio birth injury attorney on your side is crucial when navigating the legal process. Without a lawyer, your case might not get the attention it rightfully deserves.
Contact us today to learn more about your rights. Our Ohio legal team is committed to helping you seek compensation while pursuing justice on your behalf.