Childbirth has historically been one of the most precarious processes a woman can experience. Maternal mortality rates were alarmingly high in the 19th century in some countries, with one in 100 women dying from childbirth-related complications. These numbers have improved dramatically, but the risks are far from extinguished. In 2022, the maternal mortality rate in the United States is approximately 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births—one of the highest among developed countries. It’s worth adding that severe complications during childbirth affect around 60,000 women annually in the region.
With today’s advances in medical science (e.g., cesarean sections, epidurals, and other interventions), many believe that risks are eliminated. William Rothrock, a seasoned expert in medical malpractice birth injury cases, asserts that this reliance on technology and surgical procedures creates a false sense of security.
Statistics attest to Rothrock’s statement. In 2021, over 1,200 women died due to childbirth complications in the US. This figure demonstrates that childbirth remains a significant risk.
Rothrock presents a scenario: “A newly wedded couple are thrilled to be expecting their first child. The pregnancy progresses smoothly, and they eagerly anticipate the birth. Something unexpected happens during labor. The monitor malfunctions, and the mother and the medical staff are unaware. The baby’s heart rate drops dangerously low and sustains a severe brain injury due to lack of oxygen.”
The result of birth injuries can be devastating. Hypoxia, in particular, can lead to conditions such as cerebral palsy or other permanent neurological damage. Rothrock notes that these injuries are often the result of negligence or oversight, such as when a doctor fails to arrive on time despite knowing the mother is at high risk or when medical staff fail to monitor the baby’s vital signs adequately. “Cases like this are more common than many realize,” Rothrock supplies.
The executive then stresses the importance of fully understanding the childbirth process, including the potential risks and the rationale behind medical decisions during and after giving birth. His years of experience handling cases involving birth injuries have given him a unique perspective on the crucial need for awareness and education in this area.
Rothrock is a Certified Structured Settlement Consultant (CSSC) with over 25 years of experience in banking, insurance, and finance. He has dedicated his career to helping clients achieve the best possible financial outcomes post-litigation, especially in cases involving medical malpractice.
He argues that parents must be informed and vigilant during childbirth. It is reasonable to trust healthcare providers. However, parents must take an active role in understanding the procedures and potential risks involved. Knowing what to expect and what can go wrong empowers them to advocate for themselves and their unborn child. Ensuring that the medical team is attentive and prepared to handle any complications removes much of the risk of childbirth. This includes knowing what to look out for, asking the right questions, and being prepared to intervene if something seems amiss.
Many obstetricians have stated: “When in doubt, cut it out.” This crude reference to cesarean section underlies the urgency of maintaining the child’s health in a very tight and crucial window. Every minute the child is in a hypoxic state means loss of brain tissue.
Expecting parents must be even more vigilant if they opt for a home birth. Home births offer comfort and a personalized experience. Still, they pose significant risks. In 2020, the neonatal mortality rate for planned home births was 13.66 deaths per 10,000 live births.
Childbirth remains a complex and risky process, even in the modern age. Medical advancements have made it safer. However, they have not eliminated the dangers entirely. William Rothrock’s expertise in medical malpractice birth injury cases illustrates the importance of awareness and education for expecting parents. The latter can better advocate for themselves and their babies by understanding the childbirth process and the potential risks involved. “If I never had to sit down with a devastated family after a medical malpractice birth injury, I would be elated,” William Rothrock expresses.
