Japan’s Delivery Rooms Are Among the World's Safest

Nov 06, 2026 | News On Japan

Delivery rooms in Japan are some of the safest with fewer than two infant deaths per 1,000 births. As a result, many families may assume that complications during delivery are unlikely to happen to them.

However, while average statistics indicate safety, individual outcomes can vary. Here is what every expectant parent should know about childbirth injuries and what to do if something goes wrong.

A Strong Record, Not a Perfect One

While Japan’s safety record in delivery rooms is impressive, it’s important to remember that averages don’t tell the whole story. For example, women are having children at an older age in Japan. The average age of a first-time mother is now over 30. This can lead to increased chances of complications during childbirth, including larger babies, gestational diabetes, and longer labor, which in turn can increase the chances of delivery complications even at hospitals and with medical staff known for their expertise.

What Goes Wrong in a Difficult Delivery

Complications during delivery can be caused by several issues, including oxygen deprivation, delayed intervention, and babies becoming stuck in the birth canal. The most well-known of these is likely to be shoulder dystocia, a condition that occurs when a baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pubic bone after the baby’s head emerges.

Once shoulder dystocia occurs, doctors have only minutes to free the baby. Most babies are not left with lasting injuries, but in some cases, babies can suffer a broken collarbone, nerve injury to the arm, or brain injury from a lack of oxygen. Shoulder dystocia can occur without warning, which is why it’s important that doctors and other medical professionals are trained in techniques to resolve the issue.

How to Respond When Things Go Wrong

Since 2009, Japan has operated a no-fault compensation system for babies born with severe cerebral palsy caused by childbirth. Through this program, families can apply for compensation (including a one-time payment of up to 30 million yen and ongoing payments) without having to prove that medical malpractice occurred.

Each case is also analyzed to determine the cause of the cerebral palsy, with findings returned to hospitals to help prevent future incidents. That being said, not all birth injuries are covered by this program. Babies suffering from a permanent brachial plexus injury after childbirth are generally not eligible, and their families may face an uphill climb to determine what happened and who is to blame. By visiting https://www.childbirthinjuries.com/birth-injury/shoulder-dystocia/, parents can be prepared for the delivery room, should any issues arise.

What Expectant Parents Can Do

While Japan’s safety record is impressive, it’s important to take steps to be prepared both to increase the likelihood of a smooth delivery and to have documentation in case something goes wrong. Some things to consider include:

- Ask your obstetrician about the estimated weight of your baby.

- Ask about emergency procedures at the hospital, including drills to practice for emergencies.

- If you have had a difficult delivery before, make sure to mention this at each of your appointments.

- After delivery, ask for your medical records.

Be Prepared for The Delivery Room

The importance of knowing what to expect and being prepared for all eventualities is not to be understated. Families that know about potential risks like shoulder dystocia, ask pointed questions throughout their pregnancies, and maintain thorough records are in the best position, no matter what happens on delivery day.

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