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Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC Wais Vogelstein Forman Koch & Norman LLC
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Chicago Unnecessary C-Section Malpractice Lawsuit

The rate of cesarean sections, also known as C-sections, has increased significantly over the last couple of decades in the United States. Indeed, according to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), between 1996 and 2012, the rate of cesarean sections rose from 20.7 percent to 32.8 percent, and this “increase was greater than in most other developed countries.” A discussion in The Atlantic points out that approximately one-third of all babies currently born are born via cesarean, and “increases in C-section rates have not translated to healthier moms or babies.” In addition, C-sections come with a variety of risks that do not exist with vaginal births. If you believe a C-section was unnecessarily performed, you could be eligible to file a malpractice claim. An experienced Chicago unnecessary C-section malpractice lawyer at our firm can speak with you today about filing a lawsuit.

What is a C-Section, and When Can a C-Section Be Necessary?

A cesarean delivery, or a C-section, is a specific type of “surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions in the abdomen and uterus,” according to the Mayo Clinic. In some pregnancies, a C-section is scheduled ahead of time when the mother has a history of complications that could put hers or the baby’s health at risk. In other childbirths, C-sections are performed on an emergency basis due to a complication during delivery. The Mayo Clinic identifies the following as situations in which a C-section may be necessary:

  • Labor will not progress and has become stalled;
  • Baby is in distress;
  • Baby is in an abnormal position;
  • You are pregnant with triplets or more;
  • Placenta problem, such as placenta previa;
  • Prolapsed umbilical cord;
  • Mechanical obstruction due to a fibroid, pelvic fracture, or other issue; and
  • Previous C-section (although C-sections are not always necessary if a C-section was performed in a previous pregnancy)

Common Harms Resulting from Unnecessary C-Sections in Chicago

As the IHI underscores, C-sections must be understood as an “obstetric intervention” that should only be used when necessary given that they pose risks in both the short term and the long term to the mother and the baby. Common harms resulting from unnecessary C-sections can include but are not limited to the following:

  • Blood loss in the mother;
  • Increased risk of infection at the surgical site;
  • Blood clots in the mother;
  • Abnormal placentation;
  • Abdominal adhesions;
  • Interference with breastfeeding;
  • Baby having difficulty breastfeeding due to breathing difficulties; and
  • Increased likelihood of additional C-sections in subsequent pregnancies, and thus an increased risk of complications.

Reducing the Likelihood of an Unnecessary C-Section in Chicago

During a pregnancy, you should be proactive and discuss circumstances with your healthcare provider in which a C-section could be necessary. Yet as the IHI emphasizes, healthcare providers and hospitals also must take steps to reduce unnecessary C-sections by encouraging vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) where possible, maintaining clear communication with the mother during childbirth, and understanding conditions in which a C-section may be medically necessary based on data.

Contact Our Chicago Unnecessary C-Section Malpractice Lawyers

If you believe your C-section was performed unnecessarily, do not hesitate to get in touch with our Chicago malpractice lawyers to learn more about your options. Contact Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC today for more information.

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