When a baby is harmed during childbirth, it is commonly referred to as a birth injury. Some of these injuries cannot be avoided and generally happen when the infant makes the journey through the birth canal. The reasons for common birth injuries are numerous, including problems arising from premature births, cephalopelvic disproportion and shoulder dystocia. Additionally, if the baby is too large or in an awkward position there is a risk of injury.
During the birthing process the fetus can endure excessive pressure, which will result in bruising. This can happen if forceps are needed to change the position of the baby or for extraction. If the baby comes into contact with the pelvic bones it can also cause bruising to take place. Clavicle fractures often occur when the baby is in a breech position or if there is any difficulty in delivering the shoulders.
If pressure is put on the face it can damage nerves and the baby can suffer from facial paralysis as a result. This problem usually corrects itself within a few days; however, surgery might be required in severe cases. Another complication is a cephalohematoma, which happens when blood collects under the tough tissue that covers bones called the periosteum. It commonly occurs in the birth canal when the head is forced through and the tiny veins that nourish the periosteum are torn, causing bleeding under the tissue.
