Birth trauma is defined as the "injury that occurs" to a child around the time of delivery. This usually includes all events in the labor, delivery of the child, and the immediate post-delivery care.

Birth trauma cases result in such injury as hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and muscle weakness of the upper extremities (Erb's Palsy). Some injuries, especially brain injuries affecting the thinking process, may not become apparent for several years.

Classical signs suggesting birth injuries are:

1. Abnormal fetal monitor tracings;
   
2. Low Apgar scores;
   
3. Seizures; or
   
4. The need for a ventilator after birth.

However, some injuries are subtle and may not manifest themselves in any of these signs. It is important that a careful review of all medical records is completed during the determination of whether a case for compensation should be brought.

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