New York City Maternal Death Lawyer
Childbirth should be a happy and joyous experience. When the mother loses her life, it quickly turns tragic and devastating. When a mother’s death is due to medical negligence, the loss becomes even more frustrating and loved ones may find it even harder to move forward. If your loved one passed away during childbirth due to medical errors or negligence, it is important that you hold the appropriate parties accountable. Our New York City maternal death lawyer can help you do it.
What Causes Maternal Death During Childbirth?
There have been many medical advances over the past several decades that have greatly lowered the rate of maternal death. Still, it does continue to happen today. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 700 women die every year due to pregnancy or childbirth complications. The agency also provides some common causes of these deaths and they are as follows:
- Infections and sepsis: Sepsis is a life-threatening response to infections in the body. This is the leading cause of maternal death.
- Cardiomyopathy: Cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease that makes it difficult for the heart to pump blood around the body. The burden of pregnancy can worsen the condition.
- Hemorrhage: Hemorrhage refers to excessive bleeding that typically happens after childbirth due to complications with the uterus, placenta, or a lack of clotting.
- Embolism: Embolisms are blood clots that block critical blood flow. Pregnancy can increase the risk of clots forming.
- Hypertension: This is high blood pressure that causes conditions such as preeclampsia, which is dangerous for the mother and child.
- Complications from anesthesia: There are many different types of anesthesia used during childbirth. While rare, some women may experience a severe reaction to the drugs used.
Medical Negligence and Maternal Death
Many medical professionals are in labor and delivery rooms and an act of negligence by any of them can result in maternal death. The most common forms of negligence that result in tragedy include:
- Misdiagnosis: A misdiagnosis or a failure to diagnose conditions such as infections, preeclampsia, and blood clotting disorders can result in maternal death.
- Failure to monitor: Both the mother and the baby must be properly monitored for signs of distress, including abnormal blood pressure.
- Medication errors: Drugs administered during childbirth must be the correct dosage and should not cause any reactions. Doctors must ensure all medication is safe and prescribe any necessary medications.
- Surgical errors: Surgical errors can be made during a C-section or other procedures during childbirth resulting in hemorrhage, lacerations, or infections.
- Insufficient postpartum care: Healthcare staff must provide follow up care and proper instructions to protect the mother’s health and well-being.
Our Maternal Death Lawyer in New York City Can Help Your Family
At Michael Gunzburg, P.C., our New York City maternal death lawyer knows that no amount of compensation can bring your loved one back, or undo your grief. We also know how important it is to hold negligent medical professionals accountable while also obtaining the damages you need for funeral expenses and your other losses. Call us now at 212-725-8500 or contact us online to schedule a consultation so we can review your case.
