Brachial Plexus Palsy: This involves injury to a group of nerves controlling arm and hand movement, often occurring after a vaginal delivery with shoulder dystocia. The extent of recovery depends on the severity of the injury.
Caput Succedaneum: Swelling of soft tissues in the baby’s scalp, typically seen in deliveries involving vacuum extraction. Usually resolves without complications.
Cephalohematoma: Bleeding under a cranial bone, which usually resolves within a few months. However, severe cases may lead to complications like jaundice, indicating potential for more serious injuries.
Clavicle or Collarbone Fractures: Common in breech births or deliveries with shoulder dystocia, these fractures heal relatively quickly but may require restricting the baby’s movement.
Facial Nerve Palsy/Paralysis: May result from nerve bruising, requiring surgery if due to a tear.
Head Trauma: Bruising or lacerations from passage through the birth canal or use of birth-assisting tools like forceps or vacuum extractors.
Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE): Brain damage caused by birth asphyxia.
Cerebral Palsy (CP): Can stem from various complications during birth, leading to long-term movement and muscle coordination issues.
Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL): Damage to the brain’s white matter.
Other Brain Damage: Such as to the basal ganglia or cerebral cortex.
Seizure Disorders/Epilepsy: Often linked to birth injuries like HIE or birth trauma.
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DDs): Frequently associated with conditions like cerebral palsy or epilepsy.