Complications of Slip and Fall Accidents While Pregnant

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Slip and Fall Accidents

Having a baby can be one of the most exciting experiences in a person’s life. For a woman, especially, giving birth is both exciting and frightening. During the nine-month period, there are many safety measures that women must take in order to protect herself and her baby. One of the most common injuries that pregnant women and their unborn babies endure comes from slip and fall accidents, potentially causing serious complications to both parties.

What Can Happen After a Slip and Fall Accident?

Pregnancy has a massive change on the woman’s body. Since her center of gravity adjusts so significantly, she often has difficulty maintaining her balance. Slightly over 25 percent of all pregnant women experience a fall at some point in their pregnancy. Even though there may be few complications after some falls, some of the potential complications to look out for include but are not limited to:

• Abruption of the placenta;
• Broken bones in a pregnant woman;
• Change in mental status; and
• Fractured skull in the fetus.

Only 10 percent of pregnant women who experience a fall will consult their doctor for further medical attention. However, there are symptoms following a fall that may require medical care, which include:

• Direct blow to the abdomen;
• Leakage of amniotic fluid;
• Vaginal bleeding;
• Severe pain in the pelvis, abdomen, or uterus;
•  Faster contractions;
• Commencement of contractions; and
• Less movement of the fetus.

If a pregnant woman experiences a fall and decides to seek medical treatment, the doctor may check for any broken bones, as well as injuries to the chest that could alter breathing. When the doctor assesses the fetus, he or she may order some tests, including a Doppler or ultrasound, which will examine the fetus’s heartbeat.

Depending on how serious the injuries are, the doctor may also order continuous fetal monitoring, which will measure the pregnant woman’s contractions and the fetus’s heart rate. Blood tests may also be ordered because, depending on the pregnant woman’s blood type, she may be at greater risk for internal bleeding following a fall.

Call a Cook County Slip and Fall Attorney

If you or a loved one is pregnant and has just recently experienced a slip and fall accident, it is best to seek medical assistance immediately. At Issa Law, LLC, Attorney at Law, we understand your concerns regarding your pregnancy, and we are willing to go above and beyond to protect you and your loved ones. To schedule a free initial consultation with one of our Orland Park personal injury lawyers, please call 708-966-2408 to discuss your case.

Source:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/falling-while-pregnant#4