We Help Our Clients Understand Birth Injuries and Malpractice Issues.
During pregnancy, complications can arise when the placenta separates from the uterine wall. The placenta is essential for fetal growth, as it supplies oxygen, nutrients, and removes waste from the baby.
On average, the placenta measures nine inches in length and about an inch in thickness, weighing approximately one pound. It is dark blue or red in color and is attached to the uterine wall via the umbilical cord, which is 22 inches long and contains a vein and two arteries.
Throughout pregnancy, the placenta grows, allowing the mother’s blood to circulate through it, delivering essential nutrients to the baby. Health conditions such as diabetes or obesity can affect the transfer of nutrients, potentially causing a nutrient deficiency for the baby. Additionally, waste products like urea, uric acid, and creatinine are filtered out by the placenta.
The placenta also plays a crucial role in immunity, transferring antibodies to the fetus to protect them. After childbirth, the placenta is delivered, typically about 15 minutes after the baby. If complications such as placenta separation arise, it’s important to understand your legal rights. The Law Offices of Joseph Lichtenstein in Mineola, NY, can help you navigate the complexities of medical malpractice and pursue justice.
Placental Separation
Placenta abruption, also known as placental separation, occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely while the baby is still in the womb. This is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can disrupt the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the baby. The exact cause of placental abruption can be difficult to determine, though there are several potential risk factors involved.
Common causes include trauma to the abdomen, such as from a fall or car accident. Additionally, lifestyle factors like smoking, drug use, or heavy drinking during pregnancy can increase the risk of this complication. Other factors, such as diabetes, blood clotting disorders, advanced maternal age, or a history of previous placental abruptions, can also make a mother more susceptible to experiencing this dangerous condition. If you or someone you know is dealing with this issue, it’s important to seek medical advice and legal support.
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Signs of Placental Separation
Common signs of placental separation include persistent stomach pain, frequent contractions without relief, back pain, and vaginal bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention to ensure the health and safety of both you and your baby.
Complications Caused by Placental Abruption
Doctors must closely monitor both the fetus and the mother when placenta abruption occurs. They will check for any signs of fetal distress and watch the mother for symptoms of shock. To assess the situation, the doctor may recommend an abdominal ultrasound, pelvic exam, vaginal ultrasound, and other diagnostic tests.
If placenta abruption is not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can lead to life-threatening complications for both the mother and the baby. The mother may experience severe blood loss or internal bleeding, while the baby may be in distress, with nearly 50% of affected fetuses experiencing long-term complications. This highlights the importance of timely diagnosis and intervention. If medical staff fail to take proper action, it can constitute negligence and put both lives at risk. If your child has suffered complications due to placenta abruption, you may have a medical malpractice case.
To have your case reviewed by our team at The Law Offices of Joseph M. Lichtenstein, PC, contact us today or complete our free case evaluation form.
