Aside from the obvious physical discomfort and pain for the mother, a lengthy labor can have an effect on the baby as well. The longer the birthing process takes, the more likely it is that there will be complications for both the baby and the new mom. While there is no hard and fast rule about how long birth should take - particularly a first-time birth - there are some indicators that you or your baby could be in danger when labor is prolonged. These include:
- Having your water break more than 24 hours before your baby is actually born
- The umbilical cord being wrapped around the child's neck
- The baby getting stuck in the birth canal with little or no oxygen available
All of these scenarios can result in decreased oxygen for the baby, potentially causing brain damage. That brain damage can lead to conditions such as cerebral palsy and other developmental delays as the child ages. They can also put you at a higher risk for infections or other life-threatening complications.
Since an extended and difficult labor does pose a greater risk for both you and your baby, the medical professionals assisting you need to be proactive if it seems like the birth is taking too long. A caesarean delivery might be necessary to protect the baby from suffering life-threatening complications.
If you suffered a difficult birth and were later informed that your child has a condition like cerebral palsy, you should consult a legal professional in your area. Clearly, some cases of cerebral palsy are just natural occurrences. However, it is important to remember that medical negligence could be the cause of your baby's injuries and you may be entitled to compensation to help cover the costs of caring for a developmentally challenged child.
