What is perinatal asphyxia?
Perinatal asphyxia, sometimes known as birth asphyxia, occurs when a newborn does not receive enough oxygen before, during, or shortly after birth. It can arise from various circumstances, such as prolonged labour, umbilical cord complications, inadequate fetal monitoring, placental issues, delayed delivery or medical errors during delivery.
Symptoms and consequences vary significantly, ranging from mild brain injuries to severe, permanent neurological disabilities, organ damage or death. Immediate diagnosis and prompt action by medical professionals can significantly reduce the risk and severity of injury. Unfortunately, cases arise where healthcare providers fail in their duty of care, leading to avoidable, life-changing consequences for babies and their families.
Can you claim compensation for perinatal asphyxia?
If your child has suffered perinatal asphyxia due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Claims can be brought forward if there is clear evidence of negligence by healthcare professionals, such as:
- Failure to adequately monitor the mother's and baby's vital signs during labour
- Failure to take timely remedial action when the baby showed signs of distress
- Delayed or inappropriate use of equipment or interventions such as forceps or caesarean sections
- Mishandling of medical complications
Compensation claims can cover a wide range of expenses and losses, including medical treatment, therapies, rehabilitation costs, emotional distress, lost earnings, specialist care equipment, home adaptations, and future financial provisions for the affected child.
Why choose us for your perinatal asphyxia claim?
Stephensons is a highly respected national law firm with a proven track record in medical negligence claims and birth injury cases. Our team of specialist solicitors possess decades of combined experience in successfully securing compensation for families affected by negligencerelated birth injuries.
We are proud holders of Law Society accreditations for Clinical Negligence and Personal Injury, demonstrating our expertise and commitment to excellence. Our compassionate approach ensures support, sensitivity, and clear communication, helping you and your family through a challenging and emotional process.
At Stephensons, we also frequently collaborate with leading medical and rehabilitation experts, ensuring that every aspect of your child’s immediate and long-term needs are factored into your compensation claim.
How we can help
Our dedicated solicitors will handle your perinatal asphyxia compensation claim with utmost professionalism and care. We will:
- Provide you with clear, honest legal advice free of jargon
- Gather expert medical evidence to establish negligence and liability
- Guide you step-by-step through the claims process
- Work proactively to achieve the best possible outcome
- Negotiate aggressively on your behalf or, if necessary, represent you robustly in court
Our priority is to secure not only fair compensation but also the ongoing support that your child deserves, enabling them to achieve the highest quality of life possible.
Contact us today
If your child has suffered from perinatal asphyxia due to medical negligence, please contact Stephensons today for confidential legal advice. Call us on 0161 696 6165, or complete our online enquiry form and our specialist solicitors will call you back at a convenient time.
Frequently asked questions about perinatal asphyxia claims
How long do I have to make a perinatal asphyxia claim?
Generally, you can start a birth injury claim until your child reaches 18 years old. After this, your child has up to their 21st birthday to pursue their own case. If your child lacks mental capacity, the time limitation may potentially be extended indefinitely until your child regains capacity. However, it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible, as early investigation aids in gathering critical evidence and securing the compensation your child deserves.
How much can I claim for perinatal asphyxia?
The amount of compensation varies significantly and depends on the severity of injuries, ongoing medical needs, rehabilitation and specialist care costs, and the broader impacts on family life. We will assess the details of your case to provide a realistic valuation and guidance. Will I have to go to court?
Most medical negligence claims, including perinatal asphyxia cases, are usually settled without going to trial. Our team at Stephensons are skilled negotiators who strive to reach an acceptable settlement. Should court action become necessary, we will represent you robustly, guiding you throughout the entire process.
How will I fund my claim?
Most claims for perinatal asphyxia are handled on a no-win, no-fee basis, meaning there's no upfront cost and no financial risk to you. We will clearly explain all funding options during our initial consultation.
For further questions or to begin your claim, contact Stephensons today on 0161 696 6165 or fill in our enquiry form for a callback.