Maternal Care

When Mothers Are Injured .

While much of the focus during childbirth is on the baby, mothers are also at risk — especially when proper care is not provided. In 2024, 1.75% of all deliveries in Canada resulted in severe injury to the mother.

Most birth injuries to mothers are preventable. When doctors, nurses, or midwives make avoidable mistakes, the results can be life-changing.

Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH)

Most women experience ongoing changes to their blood pressure throughout pregnancy. However, if a mother’s blood pressure gets too high, it can cause preeclampsia or eclampsia (a more severe form of preeclampsia). These conditions can result in a mother suffering seizures, coma or even death. The baby’s health is also at risk. When pregnancy-induced hypertension is correctly and quickly diagnosed, it can typically be easily managed.

Uterine rupture

This is a rare but extremely dangerous emergency that can happen during a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) or with excessive use of labour drugs like oxytocin. If the uterus tears, both the baby and mother are at risk. Uterine rupture is a medical emergency. Failure to act quickly can result in death or permanent injury to the mother and the baby.

Severe Perineal or Vaginal Tears

While some tearing may be unavoidable during childbirth, 3rd and 4th degree tears — which extend to the muscles around the anus — can often be prevented. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction. Negligence may include failing to control the speed of delivery or using forceps improperly.

Retained Placenta or Products of Conception

If part of the placenta or fetal tissue is accidentally left inside the uterus, it can lead to infection and heavy bleeding. This is a known risk, and doctors must carefully examine the placenta after birth. Failure to act can result in the need for emergency surgery or even hysterectomy.

Placenta previa

Placenta previa happens when the placenta shifts to cover the opening of the cervix. It is often characterized by cramping and vaginal bleeding in the later stages of pregnancy. If it is not properly handled, placenta previa can result in uncontrolled bleeding, which could threaten the lives of both the baby and the mother.

Uncontrolled Bleeding (Postpartum Hemorrhage)

Severe bleeding after delivery is one of the leading causes of maternal death and injury. It often results from a failure to manage a torn uterus, retained placenta, or other complications. If not promptly recognized and treated with medications, transfusions, or surgery, it can lead to shock, organ failure, or death.

Anesthesia Errors

During a C-section or epidural, incorrect placement of the needle or improper dosing can lead to nerve damage, severe headaches, or even cardiac arrest. These are rare but avoidable with proper technique and monitoring.

Maternal Death

The rate of maternal death in Canada is extremely low but still occurs. Medical errors can play a role, particularly in cases where mothers experienced postpartum hemorrhage, pregnancy-induced hypertension, ectopic pregnancy, placenta previa or infection.