Types of Obstetrical & Gynecological Malpractice

Obstetrical and gynecological (OB-GYN) malpractice refers to instances where an OB-GYN or other medical professional involved in women’s reproductive health fails to provide appropriate care, leading to injury, harm, or even death. OB-GYN malpractice is particularly concerning because it can affect both mothers and their babies, leading to long-term health problems or emotional trauma. 

Common Types of Obstetrical Malpractice

Obstetrical malpractice refers to errors or negligent care during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and postpartum. Some of the most common types of obstetrical malpractice include:

Failure to Monitor or Diagnose Pregnancy Complications

During pregnancy, OB-GYNs are responsible for monitoring both the mother’s and baby’s health. Failure to diagnose or monitor conditions such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or infections can lead to severe complications, including premature birth, maternal injury, or stillbirth.

Improper Use of Delivery Instruments

Forceps and vacuum extractors are sometimes used during delivery to assist in the birth process. If used improperly, these instruments can cause serious injuries to the baby, such as skull fractures, brain damage, or facial paralysis. Improper use can also harm the mother, leading to excessive bleeding or damage to the birth canal.

Failure to Perform a Timely Cesarean Section (C-Section)

In some cases, a vaginal delivery may not be safe for the mother or baby due to conditions like fetal distress, breech positioning, or failure to progress in labor. When a C-section is medically necessary, failure to perform it in a timely manner can result in significant injury to both the mother and child, including brain damage, oxygen deprivation, or maternal hemorrhaging.

Birth Injuries

Birth injuries occur when improper medical care during delivery causes harm to the baby. Some common birth injuries related to malpractice include brachial plexus injuries (Erb’s palsy), cerebral palsy caused by oxygen deprivation, or fractures from improper handling during delivery.

Common Types of Gynecological Malpractice

Gynecological malpractice involves negligence or errors during gynecological examinations, treatments, or surgeries that negatively impact a woman’s health. Some common types of gynecological malpractice include:

Failure to Diagnose Gynecological Conditions

OB-GYNs are responsible for diagnosing a variety of reproductive health conditions, such as ovarian cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Failure to diagnose these conditions in a timely manner can result in the worsening of the patient’s health, potentially leading to infertility, chronic pain, or life-threatening complications.

Surgical Errors

Gynecological surgeries, such as hysterectomies, oophorectomies (removal of ovaries), or laparoscopy procedures, are common but carry risks. Surgical errors, such as damaging nearby organs, leaving instruments inside the patient, or improperly suturing tissues, can cause severe complications, including infections, internal bleeding, or long-term health problems.

Errors in Performing Sterilization Procedures

Sterilization procedures like tubal ligation are intended to provide permanent birth control. Errors during these procedures can result in unintended pregnancies or complications from surgical mistakes. For example, improper sealing or cutting of the fallopian tubes could lead to ectopic pregnancies, which are potentially life-threatening

Improper Use of Medical Devices

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a common form of contraception, but they must be inserted and monitored carefully. If an OB-GYN inserts an IUD improperly or fails to monitor for complications like perforation of the uterus or migration of the device, serious health issues can arise.

Legal Options for Victims

Victims of OB-GYN malpractice may be entitled to significant compensation through a medical malpractice lawsuit. To succeed, you must prove that the healthcare provider’s negligence directly caused their injuries. Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Hiring a White Plains medical malpractice lawyer is a critical first step. We can help ensure you receive justice and financial recovery.