Despite the fact that the United States is a global leader in health care, mothers in Texas and across the country may not receive sufficient protections during labor and childbirth. As a result, serious birth injuries can have lifelong effects on both mother and child. According to one study, mothers in the United States have the most dangerous experience in the developed world when going through childbirth. Each year, around 700 mothers die and 500,000 women suffer serious injuries during or after the birthing process.
The report notes that at least 50 percent of the deaths could have been prevented had mothers received better care in the hospital. In addition, half of the birth injuries studied could have been prevented or at least mitigated with more responsive, aware health care. Around the world, maternal mortality and injury rates have decreased, especially in other developed nations like France, Japan and Germany. However, the United States has moved in the opposite direction. Mothers face an escalating risk of death during childbirth.
The state of California stands as a lone exception to this disturbing trend. With strong safety guidelines and practices, the state’s maternal mortality rate was halved amid a nationwide spike. Even though the numbers speak for themselves about the utility of California’s regulations, they have not been adopted nationwide. While the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services have advocated for better treatment for elders receiving Medicare services, they have done little to track or regulate childbirth issues.
Birth injuries can be devastating to women and their children. A mother who has been hurt during childbirth due to a medical error or misdiagnosis can consult with a medical malpractice attorney. A lawyer can advise an injured mother about obtaining compensation for their damages, including lost wages and medical bills.
