Cephalohematoma refers to bleeding underneath the bones of the cranium and presents itself as a bump on the baby’s head. Normally, after a few weeks to a few months the blood is simply reabsorbed into the infant’s body and the swelling subsides but extreme cases can lead to jaundice.

Caput Succedaneum refers to swelling of the skin and muscle of the infants scalp. Babies delivered via a vacuum extraction are at risk for this condition but it usually dissipates within a few days. And negligence of medical staff can significantly raise the risk of injury associated with this type of birth.

Subconjuctival hemorrhage is when the blood vessels of the baby’s eye burst. Though dramatic in appearance this injury is harmless to the eye, which absorbs the blood within two weeks.

Bruising is common and may occur anytime the baby’s body comes into contact with the pelvic bones of the mother but vacuum extraction and the use of forceps may also cause bruising.

Fractures, especially those to the collarbone are a very common type of birth related injury and occur during the birth process but heal quickly. More dangerous factures of the spinal cord are less common but can take place.

Facial paralysis caused by extreme pressure on the baby’s face can be minor or serious. If the nerves are merely bruised they will heal within a month but if the nerves are torn they will require surgery.

Brachial palsy is caused by damage two the brachial plexus, the bundle of nerves that control the hands and arms periods often caused when there is difficulty delivering the shoulder, bruised brachial nerves heal within six months but torn or otherwise damaged nerves require surgery.

Cerebral palsy may also be caused by a trauma during the birth process. It is a neurological disorder affecting movement and coordination and is caused by damage to the brain. This damage is in most cases genetic that medical mistakes during childbirth do have the potential to prompt this terrible condition.

If your child has a sustained a birth related injury and any of those on your medical team failed in their duties then is absolutely in your best interest to contact a malpractice or birth related injury lawyer at once.