Maryland Pitocin Errors Lawyers
The childbirth process can be straight-forward and natural one, or it can be very complex and require medical intervention. Sometimes pregnant women develop health complications and need to deliver their baby ahead of schedule. For example, a pregnant woman may develop maternal diabetes or preeclampsia in the final weeks of pregnancy or her water may break prematurely and the doctor may feel that inducing labor is in the best interest of both the mother and baby.
To induce labor, the doctor might use a drug called Pitocin. Pitocin is synthetic oxytocin that is administered to the mother. It comes in a sterile, colorless solution and is used to induce or strengthen contractions during childbirth.
However, Pitocin is a strong drug. It is administered intravenously only by an experienced doctor in a hospital with adequate medical supervision. If used improperly, Pitocin can cause the contractions to be too strong. This can deprive the baby of oxygen and cause brain damage or cerebral palsy.
It’s important to understand the risks associated with Pitocin. If you or your baby were harmed by its use during childbirth, contact the Maryland pitocin error lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman today. We can assess your case and help you obtain compensation for your damages.
Pitocin Issues
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a “black box” warning for Pitocin. A black box warning means that serious or life-threatening risks can occur in connection with its use. Indeed, any patient given Pitocin should be under continuous observation by trained medical personnel who are very knowledgeable of the drug and can identify any complications that may occur.
Pitocin comes with several main risks. For the baby, it can cause fetal distress when the contractions are so close together and the uterus doesn’t have a chance to relax and recover. For the mother, risks include water intoxication, abnormal sodium levels, and pulmonary edema.
Pitocin can be risky, even when used by a qualified doctor. Therefore, if a doctor recommends it, a pregnant woman should ask why and if there are any safer alternatives available.
Pitocin Complications
Pitocin can cause serious injuries in the baby or mother if too much of it is administered over a long period of time. Common complications include:
- Infant brain damage
- Cerebral palsy
- Uterine rupture
- Hemorrhage
- Decreased fetal heart rate
- Decreased blood pressure
- Increased pressure in the brain
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Seizures
- Maternal stroke
- Death in the baby or mother
Contact Us Today
Pitocin is used often in pregnant mothers during childbirth, but it is not without its risks. If the mother is not properly monitored, the drug could cause serious complications for both the mother and the baby.
If a doctor’s negligence has led to Pitocin complications, schedule a consultation with the experienced personal injury lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman today. We’ll work hard to help you win your case and get the compensation you deserve. Call (410) 567-0800 to schedule a free consultation.
