Recent Study Finds A Mother's Colds And Flus During Pregnancy Not Linked To Developing Cerebral Palsy
A recent report published in Obstetrics and Gynecology studied the link between a mother’s health – including infections – during pregnancy and her baby’s risk of developing cerebral palsy. According to the study, suffering from the common cold and stomach flu during pregnancy were not tied to an increased risk of developing the birth defect. More serious infections, as well as a family history of cerebral palsy or a woman’s history of miscarriage created an increased risk, however the risk remained low.
The study found that some maternal infections like chicken pox and cytomegalovirus were associated with the condition especially when they occurred in the second half of pregnancy.
Although all the causes of birth defects such as cerebral palsy remain unknown, a serious birth injury such as oxygen deprivation that occurs during delivery has been shown to have a strong link to developing the condition. The incorrect use of forceps or other negligent care has also been linked to its onset. Where a birth injury occurs as the result of the result of medical malpractice, it may be possible to recover compensation.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provide that every year about 10,000 infants born in the United States will develop cerebral palsy. Symptoms of cerebral palsy can include loss of movement or other functions related to nervous system. It may cause cognitive difficulties such as the ability to think and learn, and in physical difficulties such as uncontrolled movement of the limbs, difficulty walking, and balance and coordination issues.
With treatment, medication and therapy it may be possible for a child with cerebral palsy become more independent, although the costs may be staggering.
As California cerebral palsy lawyers, the attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson have been able to help families of children recover the compensation they deserve in order to provide for a lifetime of care. For ore information or if you believe your child may have developed cerebral palsy as the result of medical malpractice, contact our dedicated California birth injury lawyers for a confidential consultation.
