Legal Definitions - prenatal injury

Prenatal injury: Harm to a developing fetus or embryo during pregnancy.

• A pregnant woman drinks alcohol, causing damage to the developing brain of her fetus.
• A mother contracts an infection during pregnancy, which can lead to birth defects or developmental delays in the baby.
• A pregnant woman is involved in a car accident, causing physical trauma to the fetus.

These examples illustrate how actions or events during pregnancy can cause harm to the developing fetus or embryo, resulting in prenatal injury. It is important for pregnant women to take steps to protect their health and the health of their developing baby, such as avoiding harmful substances and seeking medical care when needed.