Health is the greatest gift and the biggest luxury that we have. There are some times in one’s life that the risk of health complications is greater than usual. Giving birth, and the birth injuries that sometimes occur, is one of those moments in life where the health of the mother and the infant is more at risk than usual. There are, of course, millions of births that come and go without incident, but it is important to note that this is unfortunately not always the case. Birth injuries and other frightening incidents can and do sometimes occur during childbirth, and this is why it is just as important as ever to be aware of the reality of the risks associated with childbirth.

Of course, this is not to say that birth injury is imminent, or that anyone should be frightened to give birth. All that this means is that there are real incidents that do occur during childbirth, and it can be very useful to be aware of them in case any of them do occur (and of course, to learn more about birth injuries and the legal options that are available to you if you find yourself in the position of needing legal representation following a birth injury, click here). The health of both the mother and the newborn baby is paramount in the lead up to, and during, the birth itself. Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, some things fall through the cracks. Accidents and other unforeseen circumstances do sometimes occur.

The health of the mother

Of course, the health of the mother is of the utmost importance. During pregnancy and going into labour can be an overwhelming experience. There is no denying that fact. When you give birth, it pays to have a strong understanding of the importance of knowing your body and knowing that there are health risks involved with carrying and delivering a baby. When you go through the labour process, if the birth does not go according to plan, it is important that your partner or next of kin is aware of your wishes if something goes awry and you cannot make a decision yourself. This is important not only for your own health and wellbeing, but the health and wellbeing of your newborn baby.

The health of the newborn baby

And then, of course, there is the health of the newborn baby as well. Obviously just as important as the health of the mother, there are points you should be aware of surrounding the health of your child. From bone fractures and breaks and cranial and spinal cord injury, to brain injuries or even asphyxia or umbilical cord strangulation, there are health risks that can occur in the lead up to birth or during the birth itself. Now, while these injuries are not extremely common, they are more common than one might think. There is no need to be stressing out before the birth (that is not healthy for yourself or your baby), but there is something to be said about at least being aware of these possible birth injuries.