Birth Injury Statistics In New York [2024]

Birth injuries remain a critical concern, affecting families and communities across New York. These injuries, which occur during labor and delivery, can lead to lifelong complications for both the child and the parents.

Prevalence of Birth Injuries in New York

Here is how prevalent birth injuries are in New York according to the latest data from the State Health Department published in a report called “New York State Report on Pregnancy-Associated Deaths in 2018-2020:”

• From 2018 to 2020, there were a total of 121 pregnancy-related deaths in New York State: 41 in 2018, 42 in 2019, and 38 in 2020.
• The overall pregnancy-related mortality ratio was 18.5 deaths per 100,000 live births during this period.
• Black, non-Hispanic women experienced a pregnancy-related mortality ratio five times higher than White, non-Hispanic women (54.7 versus 11.2 deaths per 100,000 live births).
• White, non-Hispanic women accounted for 29.8% of pregnancy-related deaths, despite representing 49.1% of all live births.
• The mortality ratio for cesarean delivery was 3.1 times higher than that for vaginal delivery (23.8 versus 7.6 deaths per 100,000 live births).
• It was found that 73.6% of pregnancy-related deaths had at least some chance of being prevented.

Data from the 2023 New York State Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Advisory Council (MMMAC) Report is in line with national trends, highlighting severe racial and geographic disparities. According to the MMMAC’s report, Black individuals are four times more likely to die in pregnancy or childbirth compared to White individuals.

Most Common Types of Birth Injuries

Some of the most commonly reported birth injuries in New York include:

Brachial Plexus Injuries

These injuries involve damage to the network of nerves controlling the arm and hand, often caused by shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone.

Fractures

Particularly clavicle fractures, which are typically caused by difficult deliveries where excessive force is applied.

Cerebral Palsy

A neurological disorder caused by brain damage due to oxygen deprivation or trauma during birth, leading to varying degrees of motor impairment and developmental challenges.

Facial Nerve Injuries

Facial nerves can be damaged by the use of forceps or vacuum extractors during delivery.

Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

Brain damage caused by inadequate oxygen supply, leading to potential long-term cognitive and physical disabilities.

The Impact of Birth Injuries on Families

Birth injuries have profound implications for families, often extending far beyond the initial trauma. Emotionally, parents and siblings may experience intense grief, guilt, and anxiety, grappling with the reality of the child’s condition and the changes it imposes on daily life.

Financially, the cost of ongoing medical care, specialized equipment, and parents’ potential lost income can be overwhelming.

Birth Injury Claims

Birth injury claims seek to hold healthcare providers accountable for deviations from the standard of care expected, resulting in harm to a mother or newborn. To be successful, you must demonstrate that the medical staff’s negligence directly caused the injury.

This often involves gathering comprehensive medical records, expert testimonies, and detailed accounts of the birthing process. Compensation from these claims can cover a wide range of needs, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, long-term care, and emotional distress.

If you or a loved one has suffered a birth injury, discuss your rights with a trusted New York birth injury lawyer in a free consultation today.