Long-Term Risks Associated with Cesarean Delivery
March 23, 2018
The childbirth process is often one of the most joyful moments in parents’ lives, but it can also be filled with uncertainty, stress, and worry if something goes wrong. While vaginal deliveries are considered to be the most natural and uncomplicated method of childbirth, more women are choosing to deliver via cesarean for a variety of reasons. However, like any major surgery, there are risks associated with cesarean sections, including long-term disadvantages to both the mother and the child.
Researchers conducted a study that was published in the journal, PLOS Medicine, which analyzed data from 80 studies and close to 30 million subjects. Study findings set forth that women who had cesarean sections were less likely to develop urinary incontinence and pelvic prolapse, a weakening of the muscles that hold the pelvic organs in place. However, they were exposed to other risks that did not affect women who had vaginal deliveries, including the following:
- Women who became pregnant after having a cesarean section were 17 percent more likely to have a miscarriage, and 27 percent more likely to deliver a child that is stillborn.
- Women were three times more likely to suffer from placental problems, including placenta accreta, which occurs when the placenta grows too deeply in the uterine wall.
- Children who are delivered via cesarean section are at a 21 percent increased risk of developing asthma by the age of 12, and 60 percent more likely to become obese by the age of five.
Overall, according to Dr. Sarah J. Stock, an obstetrician at the University of Edinburgh, the risks of delivery-related complications were small, both in vaginal and cesarean deliveries. For example, in vaginal deliveries, the risk for placenta accreta is one in 3,000 and is only three in 3,000 with cesarean deliveries. However, said Stock, it is important to recognize that while these problems are rare, they are serious and can pose long-term health risks to both the mother and the child. Further research into the risks and benefits of cesarean sections is warranted. In addition, it is extremely important for physicians to explain the benefits, as well as the short and long-term risks that a cesarean section can have, including future pregnancy complications and the effect it can have on the long-term health of the child. Providing this information will ensure that the mother is able to make an informed choice.
Baltimore Birth Injury Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Justice for Victims of Medical Negligence
If your health, or the health and safety of your child has been jeopardized because of a negligence during a cesarean delivery, contact the Baltimore birth injury lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. If your physician failed to discuss all the possible risks associated with a cesarean section, or a medical error was made during the delivery process, he or she may be held liable for any injuries. We will thoroughly investigate the details of your case and determine who is responsible for any injuries you or your child suffered because of the cesarean section. We will secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve so that you can focus on your health and the health of your child. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent medical malpractice victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.
