If My OB Did Not Perform a Necessary C-Section, Can I Sue?

 Posted on June 20, 2025 in Birth Injury

When a vaginal birth would be too risky for the mother or child, a C-section delivery may be necessary. In 2023, 32.3 percent of babies born in the U.S. were delivered by C-section. While C-sections can save lives, the timing of the procedure is important. If an obstetrician delays or fails to perform a necessary C-section, the consequences can be devastating. In some cases, this failure may be considered a form of medical malpractice.

Doctors are expected to monitor labor carefully and recognize signs that a C-section is the safest option. If warning signs are present and no action is taken or the action is delayed, that failure could indicate medical negligence, which may give you grounds for a claim for compensation. Our knowledgeable Cook County, IL maternal injuries lawyers can provide invaluable assistance.

What Circumstances Could Make a C-Section Necessary?

A C-section may be required when labor is not progressing, the baby is in distress, or there are complications such as placenta previa, uterine rupture, or umbilical cord prolapse. Multiple births, having previous C-sections, a fetus in breech position, and preeclampsia may also lead a doctor to recommend surgical delivery. In these and other situations, failing to act quickly can cause serious harm to both the mother and the baby.

What Can Happen If a Needed C-Section Is Delayed or Not Performed?

Delaying or skipping a necessary C-section can lead to birth injuries such as brain damage, cerebral palsy, shoulder dystocia, or even stillbirth. The mother may also sustain serious injuries, including uterine rupture, excessive blood loss, or infections. Sometimes, mothers can die.

These outcomes are not just medical problems. They can lead to a lifetime of physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If the harm could have been avoided by timely intervention, it may be possible to pursue a claim for compensation.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Medical Malpractice Case?

Medical malpractice cases are complex. Proving that your OB made a negligent mistake involves showing that a qualified doctor in a similar situation would have acted differently. Proving that medical negligence was the direct cause of your losses usually requires expert testimony, a thorough review of medical records, and a detailed understanding of labor and delivery procedures. Not every lawyer understands the intricacies of birth and maternal injury cases. We do.

We have extensive experience with birth injury cases. We can search for the right kinds of supporting evidence, work with medical experts, and build a strong claim on your behalf. Having our competent legal representation can make a major difference in your ability to recover full compensation.

Speak to Our Skilled Chicago, IL C-Section Error Attorneys

If you or your child were harmed because a doctor delayed or failed to perform a necessary C-section, you may have a valid malpractice claim. At Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd., our team has the knowledge, resources, and dedication to thoroughly investigate your case and fight for the justice your family deserves. Contact our experienced Cook County, IL birth injuries lawyers online or by calling 312-462-4200 today for a free consultation.