ChildRC: Birth Injury Resource Center

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Kathy McGinn, R.N., B.S.N., L.N.C.C.

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How to Detect Birth Injuries

What are signs that a birth injury has occurred?

Identifying a birth injury is not an easy task. In some cases, evidence of an injury may be apparent immediately after delivery. Often, however, symptoms of a birth injury may not appear until months or even years later. Some initial signs of birth injuries may include:

  • Abrasions, bruises or swelling on the infant's face, head or shoulder
  • Seizures that develop within 48 hours
  • A "floppy" appearance indicating lack of muscle tone
  • One arm that is limp in appearance
  • The infant's failure to begin breathing immediately following delivery

Birth injury symptoms that can appear later in a child's life include lack of muscle coordination, drooling, uneven gait, or difficulty with speech.

Please note that these symptoms are meant to be basic guidelines. Only a physician can properly diagnose a birth injury. Therefore, consult with a physician if you think your child is showing signs of delayed development.

Learn more about the different types of birth injuries.

Start the process of getting your birth injury legal questions answered.

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