In some birthing situations, the outcome is brain damage. Children who have brain damage prior to, during, or right after birth are at risk for developing a variety of associated problems, including cerebral palsy. The condition is characterized by limited movement in the body that is a direct result of a lack of communication between the brain and the body's nerves and muscles. Various degrees of severity that may be experienced, including very limited conditions and that result in quadriplegia. In some instances, the brain damage is unavoidable, but in others it can be avoided through the providing of adequate, competent medical care prior to, during and after the child's birth.