Severe 3rd Degree Tear Disability and Compensation for Maternity Negligence
Negligent medical care of a childbirth tear can leave a new mother with dysfunctional bowel control. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
3rd degree tears and disability
A third degree tear during vaginal childbirth can cause permanent bowel dysfunction. A perineal tear of this severity damages not only the woman's perineum between the vagina and the anus but it also extends into the muscles which control bowel movement and the passing of wind.
The anal sphincter, the external and internal bowel muscles, allow an individual to prevent and control the passing of wind and faeces. Unfortunately, a third degree tear causes damage to these muscles. Depending on whether it is a 3a, 3b or 3c tear, the injury will either be restricted to the external anal muscles or it will affect both external and internal muscles. It is essential that, whatever the extent of the damage, the injury must be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible after the birth of the baby. This will give the new mother the best chance of recovery of control of her bowel movements.
Negligent medical care, such as the following, can leave a woman with unrepaired damage, causing permanent problems:
- A failure to carry out an examination including a digital rectal examination
- A failure to identify any damage leading to a failure to diagnose
- A misdiagnosis of the extent and nature of the injury
- A failure to carry out an effective and appropriate repair
Claiming compensation for negligent maternity care
Loss of bowel control can be devastating in its psychological, physical, practical and financial impact. The blow to a woman's confidence can be severe. Her ability to earn a living can be compromised. Her emotional and physical capacity to support her new-born baby can be affected.
If negligent maternity care has caused a significant impact on a woman's quality of life, she would be legally entitled to make a claim for compensation. If she is suffering financially as a result of the negligent care, such as not being able to pursue a career due to bowel symptoms, any financial losses would be included in a successful claim.
Speak to a solicitor
If you think you may be suffering the effects of an unrepaired 3rd degree tear, speak to a legal specialist about the possibility of making a claim for compensation. They will be able to advise you as to the validity of your claim and the best way forward.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers. Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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