Birth Injury Resource Center

Types of Birth Injuries & Birth Defects

The birth of a baby-one of nature's most wondrous feats-is an amazing and sometimes perilous journey. The occurrence of birth injuries is always a risk, even in a "normal" delivery. However, certain circumstances surrounding the delivery can increase the potential of birth injuries, such as a large baby, premature birth, prolonged labor, or abnormal presentation. Although techniques such as c-section, vacuum extraction and the use of forceps may help to prevent birth injuries in some cases, these methods carry their own risks.

Below are some of the kinds of birth injuries that are discussed in detail in this section of the website.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders caused by damage to the area in the brain that controls sensation, voluntary motor function, and posture. Symptoms of CP include uneven gait, tremors, lack of muscle coordination, and difficulty swallowing or speaking. Learn more about cerebral palsy.

Erb’s Palsy

Erb's palsy, sometimes referred to as brachial plexus palsy, is a stretch injury to a network of nerves in the neck called the brachial plexus. Signs of this birth injury may include lack of muscle control in the arm, lack of sensation in the arm or hand, or a limp or paralyzed arm. Learn more about Erb's palsy.

Shoulder Dystocia Injuries

Shoulder dystocia describes a scenario in which a baby's head has emerged from the birth canal, but its shoulders are lodged behind the mother's pubic bone. Birth injuries related to shoulder dystocia include brain damage, Erb's palsy, and collarbone fractures. Learn more about shoulder dystocia injuries.

Brain Injuries

Brain injury in newborns often results from a decreased flow of blood and oxygen to the infant's brain during labor and delivery. Brain-related birth injuries have been associated with cerebral palsy, mental retardation and other serious health conditions. Learn more about brain-related birth injuries.

Anophthalmia - Exposure to Benlate & Pesticides

Anophthalmia is a medical term that is used to describe the absence of the globe and ocular (eye) tissue from the orbit. It may result from chromosome abnormalities, inherited or sporadic mutations, or prenatal environmental factors. Learn more about Anophthalmia .