Premature babies have higher risk of cerebral palsy

A birth is considered full-term if it occurred between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation. If a baby is born before the beginning of the 37th week of pregnancy, he or she is considered a premature baby. Because premature babies didn’t have enough time to mature inside the mother’s womb, they are vulnerable to different health conditions, some of them life-long, such as cerebral palsy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children born before the start of 32nd week of pregnancy are at the highest risk of developing cerebral palsy. Some experts believe preterm babies are at highest risk of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), a type of brain damage involving the brain’s white matter, or the area of the brain that transports nerve impulses to the other areas of the brain. PVL is considered a major factor in the development of cerebral palsy.

Apart from pre-term birth, babies can also be at risk of cerebral palsy due to medical malpractice. Failure to conduct a C-section when necessary or a negligently performed delivery may all increase the risk of CP among babies. To learn more about taking legal action against the negligent medical practitioner involved, speak with our team at the Driscoll Firm by calling (800) 900-7704 today.


Free Evaluation

No fees until you collect. Complete the form below to receive a free evaluation.

Se Habla Espanol