Often, when a labor is not progressing, Pitocin is suggested as an option to help speed the delivery along. Pitocin is a synthetic form of the natural hormone, oxytocin, which triggers a woman to have contractions, and hence moves labor along. Thus, when labor slows doctors may administer synthetic Pitocin to mimic what the body does naturally. However, the use of Pitocin carries various risks. When delivered improperly - whether the dosage is too low, too high or not monitored - problems can arise, with potentially serious consequences to mother and child.
Mothers may experience complications such as decreased blood pressure, hemorrhages and impaired blood flow to the injury. This may translate into seizures, brain injury or damage, and a decreased heart rate. The impact of these complications may permanently affect the health of the child.
In this instance, parents may face a lifetime of medical bills and costs paying for treatment and therapy for their child. If the Pitocin was delivered negligently, the doctors, hospital or other staff may be held liable in a medical malpractice action and be responsible to pay compensation to the family for the physical and mental suffering caused to an infant and their family.
For more information or if you believe that your child may have suffered a birth injury as a result of the use of Pitocin, we urge you to contact our experienced California birth injury lawyers for a confidential consultation.