BirthInjury FYI

Birth Injury Resources


Do You Suffer From a Birth Injury?

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that hinder control of movement. It occurs due to brain damage or incorrect development of the brain. Cerebral palsy occurs in two forms: either congenital (present at birth) or acquired (after birth).

Common Causes

Cerebral palsy is caused by an injury to the brain during pregnancy, around the time of birth, or shortly after birth. This brain damage may be caused by several factors depending on the type of brain damage, the onset of the brain damage, and the health history of mother and child. Some common causes of cerebral palsy include:

  • Jaundice
  • Kidney or urinary tract infection in the mother during pregnancy
  • Measles or other viral infection in the mother during pregnancy
  • Oxygen shortage
  • Stroke
  • Bleeding
  • Brain infection
  • Head injury

Effects on the Child

Cerebral palsy can affect a child in any of the following ways:

  • Muscle spasticity or tightness
  • Involuntary movement
  • Speech problems
  • Irregular gait
  • Seizures
  • Hearing, speech, or sight impairment
  • Learning disabilities
  • Difficult with feeding
  • Lack of bladder and bowel control
  • Breathing difficulty

Prevention

Cerebral palsy can be prevented in a number of ways. Most of these preventive techniques deal with keeping the mother healthy while she is pregnant. It is important that all women capable of becoming pregnant be immunized for measles. If possible, pregnant women should limit their exposure to viruses and other infections. If an infection of the urinary or reproductive tracts is detected, it should be treated immediately. Physicians should monitor nutritional deficiencies, possible anemia, and diabetes to limit the risk of fetus suffering brain damage. Expectant mothers should also avoid unnecessary medications and x-rays.

Support Groups

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is a national organization that provides comprehensive information, advocacy, and direct services to people with disabilities. UCP has developed a number of programs designed to provide assistance, such as information and referral services, research programs, assistive technology programs, individual and family support groups, and recreation programs. In addition, UCP provides assisted living and employment services.