Although it’s scary to think about the possibility of dying in childbirth, it’s also necessary for pregnant people and their families to consider the real risks associated with pregnancy. It can be harmful to cause yourself stress by focusing exclusively on that possibility, but it underscores the importance of putting in the time to create a birth plan that makes you feel comfortable and safe. If you or someone you know is currently pregnant or considering becoming pregnant, read on to learn more about the chances of dying while giving birth in the United States.
How serious is the risk of a birth injury?
The process of being pregnant and going through childbirth can be incredibly stressful in a number of ways, but the fear of a birth injury is in the back of many expecting parents’ minds. It’s understandable to ask, what are the chances of dying while giving birth? Unfortunately, pregnancy-related deaths aren’t as rare as they should be. A death is considered to be pregnancy-related when it occurs within 42 days of a terminated pregnancy or while pregnant. In 2015, over 300,000 people died due to pregnancy complications or childbirth.
The United States has a maternal mortality rate that is lower than many parts of the world, but pregnancy-related death is still a serious problem. According to an investigation performed in 2017, the U.S. has the worst rate of maternal mortality in the developed world. It’s shocking to think that childbirth can cause so much loss of life when you consider how advanced and well-funded the health care system is, but the reality is that you do have to think about the possibility of maternal mortality before your due date.
Though it is important to be cautious, accidents can still happen even to the most cautious people, some caused by the negligence of another party. In many instances, you may find that you are eligible to file a claim related to the birth injury, which can help you cover the damages associated with the loss. Though nothing can ever erase the tragedy of losing a loved one, it’s important that you have a way to cover medical bills, funeral costs, and are compensated for your pain and suffering.
What are your legal options after a birth injury?
If you or a loved one has experienced a birth injury, you may have legal options and it’s important that you explore them. There are several types of birth injuries. Death during childbirth is one, but you may also have a case if your child was disabled or injured while giving birth. While we want to believe doctors and specialists won’t be wrong, the statistics tell us that historically, negligence and lack of care have caused many injuries and fatalities.
Don’t let fear of the cost of pursuing your claim deter you from seeking legal representation. Most personal injury attorneys work on what is known as a contingency fee basis, where the attorney takes their payment as a percentage of your final settlement or judgment. That means you won’t have to pay anything until your case has been successfully resolved. Considering how substantial your expenses can be following a birth injury, it’s essential that you make sure you receive any compensation you’re entitled to so you can focus on your family.
Maternal mortality is a major problem all over the world, but if you live in the United States, you may have a higher risk of sustaining a birth injury than you think. You should always be proactive and participate in the care process, as well as voicing any concerns you have as soon as you have them, so you can help to prevent avoidable mistakes and miscommunications. However, there is always a risk to parents and the newborn during childbirth, and there is always the possibility of a tragedy occurring. It can help ease your mind to be prepared and know what steps to take in the aftermath, so you can help your family heal.
