Intracranial Hemorrhages

Intracranial Hemorrhages – Understanding Brain Bleeds in Newborns

The Birth Injury Lawyers at Fertility Law Group – Helping Families Navigate the Challenges of an Injured Newborn

Few things are more distressing than learning that your newborn has suffered a brain bleed or intracranial hemorrhage at birth. The uncertainty about your child’s future, the medical complexities, and the emotional toll can feel overwhelming. At Fertility Law Group, we have seen firsthand how challenging this journey can be for families. That’s why we are committed to providing not only legal guidance but also compassionate support as you seek the best care for your child.

What Is an Intracranial Hemorrhage?

An intracranial hemorrhage is a type of brain bleed that occurs when blood vessels in the brain rupture, leading to bleeding within the skull. In newborns, this can happen due to birth trauma, oxygen deprivation, or medical errors during labor and delivery. The severity can vary, with some cases resolving over time and others leading to long-term neurological impairments.

Types of Intracranial Hemorrhages in Newborns

Subdural Hemorrhage – Bleeding between the brain and the outermost membrane. Often caused by the improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage – Bleeding in the space surrounding the brain, which can cause seizures and developmental delays.
Intraventricular Hemorrhage (IVH) – Bleeding into the brain’s ventricles, often seen in premature infants.
Epidural Hemorrhage – Bleeding between the skull and the brain’s protective layers, often caused by traumatic delivery.

How Do Brain Bleeds Occur During Birth?

While some hemorrhages occur naturally, many could have been prevented with proper medical care. Certain delivery complications increase the risk, and when doctors fail to respond appropriately, the consequences can be severe.

Risk Factors & Causes

Prolonged or Difficult Labor – When labor is too long or stressful, it can put excessive pressure on the baby’s brain.
Improper Use of Forceps or Vacuum Extraction – If delivery tools are used with excessive force, they can cause skull fractures and brain bleeds.
Oxygen Deprivation (Hypoxia) – Lack of oxygen can weaken blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture.
Prematurity – Babies born before 32 weeks are at higher risk because their blood vessels are more fragile.
Undiagnosed Maternal Infections – Certain infections can lead to inflammation, increasing the risk of brain hemorrhages.

Get Help Now

If you have questions about your rights or your options, please contact us for a free consultation. There is no obligation and we keep all inquiries strictly confidential.

The Long-Term Impact of Brain Bleeds

The effects of an intracranial hemorrhage depend on the severity and location of the bleed, as well as how quickly it was diagnosed and treated. Some children recover fully, while others face lifelong neurological challenges.

Potential Long-Term Effects

Cerebral Palsy – Brain damage from hemorrhages can lead to muscle stiffness, difficulty walking, and motor function issues.
Seizure Disorders – Babies who suffer a brain bleed are at higher risk of developing epilepsy or other seizure conditions.
Developmental Delays – Cognitive, speech, and motor skill delays may require early intervention and long-term therapy.
Learning Disabilities – Some children experience difficulty with memory, attention, and problem-solving.
Vision & Hearing Impairments – Depending on the location of the bleed, some children may have partial or total vision or hearing loss.

Treatment & Ongoing Care for Children with Brain Bleeds

Newborns with intracranial hemorrhages often require intensive medical care, neurological monitoring, and long-term therapy.

Treatment Options

Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) – Monitoring for seizures, breathing issues, and other complications.
Surgery (in severe cases) – Some infants require surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the brain.
Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy – If motor function or cognitive skills are affected, early intervention is crucial for long-term development.
Seizure Management – Medication and specialized care may be necessary for children who develop epilepsy.
Special Education & Adaptive Support – If a child faces cognitive challenges, educational support and individualized learning plans (IEPs) can help them thrive.

Planning for the Future – The Importance of a Life Care Plan

For children who suffer moderate to severe brain bleeds, families need to plan for long-term medical care, therapy, and adaptive support. A Life Care Plan outlines the projected medical needs, therapy costs, assistive devices, and caregiver expenses a child will require over their lifetime.

At Fertility Law Group, we work with leading medical experts, neurologists, and life care planners to ensure families have a clear picture of what their child will need—and that they receive the financial resources to provide it.

Why Pursuing a Birth Injury Claim Matters

When a birth injury like an intracranial hemorrhage occurs due to medical mistakes, families deserve answers. A legal claim is not just about financial compensation—it’s about:

Ensuring your child gets access to the best possible care, therapy, and support.
Preventing similar mistakes from happening to other families.
Holding medical professionals to the standard of care every child deserves.

We know this process can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, handling the legal complexities so you can focus on your child.

Fertility Law Group – Supporting Families Every Step of the Way

We understand that no amount of compensation can undo the harm caused, but it can ensure that your child has everything they need to live a full and supported life. Our team has decades of experience handling birth injury cases, and we are committed to standing by families who face these heartbreaking challenges.

Why Families Trust Us

We Listen & Care – We know how overwhelming this journey is, and we are here to support you.
We Specialize in Fertility and Birth Injuries – This is what we do. We focus on helping families whose children have suffered preventable birth trauma.
We Work With Leading Medical Experts – Our legal team collaborates with neurologists, pediatric specialists, and life care planners to build the strongest possible case for your child’s future.
You Pay Nothing Upfront – We work on a contingency basis—you don’t pay unless we win.

Take the First Step – Let’s Talk About Your Family’s Needs

If your child suffered a brain bleed at birth, we encourage you to reach out for a free, confidential consultation. Even if you’re unsure whether medical malpractice played a role, we can help you understand your options and answer your questions.

Intracranial Hemorrhages