Ohio Uterine Rupture Lawyers

During childbirth, a mother’s uterus can tear or rupture due to strain. A uterine rupture is when all three layers of the uterus tear completely. This often happens during labor after a previous cesarean delivery. It poses serious risks to both mother and baby, so clinicians must watch closely for any signs. According to the National Library of Medicine, it is estimated that one uterine rupture occurs for every 5,000 to 7,000 births. Sometimes this can happen naturally; other times, the rupture can be the result of the actions of a doctor or medical professional.  Signs of a uterine rupture include:

• Abdominal pain
• Chest pain
• Bleeding
• Hypovolemic shock
• Tachycardia or Bradycardia
• Cessation of contractions.

Patients with a uterine rupture may feel sudden, sharp abdominal pain that begins with a “ripping” sensation, followed by very painful contractions. Blood in the peritoneum can cause chest pain or shoulder pain similar to heart pain. An epidural can mask this pain, delaying diagnosis.

The fetal heart rate is a key indicator of both fetal and maternal health. Reduced blood flow to the fetus may cause fetal bradycardia, reduced variability, or late decelerations, with bradycardia being the most common sign of uterine rupture. The absence of fetal heart sounds is a serious sign and requires an ultrasound to confirm.

Bladder injury often occurs with uterine rupture. If a uterine rupture is suspected, the urine should be checked for blood. Pink, red, or brown urine can indicate blood, and blood clots, which can be painful, may pass through the urethra.

If a uterine rupture is not diagnosed and treated quickly, the mother and baby can suffer catastrophic injury. The Ohio birth injury attorneys at Clark, Perdue & List are experienced at investigating the causes of injuries during childbirth, determining who was at fault, and holding responsible parties accountable for any harm suffered by the mother or baby.

If a doctor or medical professional causes a uterine rupture during childbirth, they may be liable for any injuries that result. Likewise, doctors and medical professionals have a duty to closely monitor a mother during labor and watch for signs of distress.  When the signs and symptoms of a uterine rupture are ignored, and the uterine rupture causes injury to the mother or child, the doctor or medical staff may have committed medical malpractice.

At Clark, Perdue & List, we are lawyers experienced in helping families who have fallen victim to medical malpractice. We understand the difficulties associated with caring for an injured child and trauma of realizing that a doctor made an error.  We help families cope with the complex legal and financial issues that result from birth injuries, and we have a proven track record of achieving compensation for families who have suffered personal injury as a result of negligence during pregnancy and birth.