There are multiple health complications that can cause newborns to experience HIE. Some of the complications involve negligent actions like drug and alcohol abuse. Other causes involve severe fetal anemia or issues with blood flow to the placenta. However, the negligent actions of a doctor or medical professional can also cause newborns to experience HIE. this can include failing to accurately monitor the baby’s heart rate, failing to prevent a premature birth, prolonging labor and delivery for too long, and making mistakes while administering medication.