4th Degree Tear Impact and Claiming Compensation for Medical Negligence
If negligent maternity care has contributed to the impact of a 4th degree tear, talk to a specialist solicitor about the possibility of making claim for compensation.
Negligent maternity care
A 4th degree tear during vaginal childbirth is a known risk and, therefore, every woman who gives birth in this way should be checked for any sign of such a severe injury.
A failure to carry out a digital rectal examination or a failure to diagnose a 4th degree tear if one has occurred are likely to be regarded as negligent care. A misdiagnosis of this appalling injury as a lesser injury may also be regarded as negligent if it means that the new mother ends up with an inadequate repair and on-going distressing and debilitating symptoms.
The impact of a 4th degree tear
The significance of a 4th degree tear is that, in addition to damaging both the external and internal anal sphincter, as is the case of 3rd degree tears, a 4th degree tear damages the lining of the anal canal.
This can lead to the development of a fistula, or passage, between the anus and the vagina which should not be there. Such a development can allow wind and faeces to seep through to the vagina, causing distressing leakage.
It may also necessitate the fitting of a stoma to facilitate effective bowel function.
It is difficult to quantify the practical, emotional and financial impact of such a devastating outcome from childbirth. Coming to terms with the challenges which this injury presents to every single day, to a woman's ability to support her child, to work, to socialise and even to leave the house can be overwhelming.
Knowing that this appalling situation could have been avoided with better maternity care can only add to the distress.
Making a successful compensation claim can help to resolve the many financial difficulties which may occur, such as a loss of income, and may help to provide a sense of recognition and justice.
Free specialist legal advice
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive experience of running birth tear claims. Over the years we have developed a thorough understanding of the distress and disability which these shocking injuries can cause and fully appreciate the difficulties which a woman may feel when discussing her symptoms.
If you suspect that you have been the victim of negligent care, contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of claiming compensation.
We can offer No Win No Fee medical negligence funding which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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