Michigan CPD: Cephalopelvic Disproportion Lawyer
What is CPD Cephalopelvic Disproportion?
Cephalopelvic Disproportion, or CPD, occurs when a baby’s head or body is too large to fit through the mother’s pelvis. Sometimes CPD can be diagnosed during an ultrasound examination, but most cases are diagnosed following the mother’s “failure to progress” during labor. Possible causes of CPD include:
- Mother has a small pelvis.
- Mother has an abnormally shaped pelvis.
- Baby is in an abnormal position.
- Baby is larger than average due to
- diabetes,
- post-maturity (the due date has passed), or
- hereditary factors.
What are the Possible Effects of CPD?
If the doctor does not diagnose CPD prior to delivery, a number of injuries can occur to the baby. Prolonged labor is stressful for a baby and can cause oxygen-deprivation injuries, such as cerebral palsy or other developmental delays. The baby is also at a higher risk for Erb’s palsy (and other shoulder and arm injuries) or a trapped umbilical cord.
When CPD is discovered due to failure to progress (labor is not moving as quickly as it should), the doctor may administer Pitocin or Oxytocin to speed up delivery. Administering too much of these drugs can cause traumatic contractions that can harm the baby.
How can the Risk for CPD Injuries be Minimized?
Cephalopelvic disproportion is rare (around one in every 200 pregnancies) and typically is not diagnosed until the day of delivery, making it difficult to prevent. The doctor may find it necessary to use forceps or a vacuum or resort to a cesarean section.
Thurswell Law can Help You
If your doctor failed to act in a timely manner to prevent CPD, and your baby was diagnosed with a birth injury, you deserve justice. Thurswell Law wants to get you the compensation you deserve so you do not have to suffer financially. Contact us today at 248-354-2222 for a free consultation.
