4th Degree Tear Maternity Negligence and When to Make a Claim
If you are struggling with the appalling consequences of an unrepaired 4th degree tear, contact Glynns to discuss the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Why a 4th degree tear matters
Fourth degree tears are the most severe form of maternal birth tear during vaginal childbirth. Although they affect less than 4% of women who give birth in this way, without prompt diagnosis and a surgical repair, the symptoms of a 4th degree tear are both debilitating and highly distressing.
A 4th degree tear is an injury which extends from a woman's vagina, across the perineum, through the anal sphincter and into the lining of the anal canal.
The symptoms associated with 4th degree tears include incontinence of both wind and faeces as well as perineal discomfort and infections. A woman with a 4th degree tear is also at risk of requiring the fitting of a stoma to provide bowel function. A shocking outcome from vaginal childbirth, indeed!
Maternity negligence and 4th degree tears
All women who give birth through the vagina should undergo a thorough examination following the birth of their baby to check the condition of their anal sphincter. A failure to do this may be regarded as negligent.
Any damage to the anal sphincter should be diagnosed correctly as either a 3a, 3b, 3c or 4th degree tear. A misdiagnosis can be disastrous, leading to an inadequate repair where the new mother continues to experience debilitating bowel symptoms although she has apparently undergone a repair.
A failure to recognise that a tear has occurred at all would also clearly be regarded as a failure of care.
Finally, an inadequate repair, such as using incorrect techniques for specific aspects of the injury, allowing symptoms to continue, may be regarded as negligent.
Claiming compensation
If you are struggling with the symptoms of an undiagnosed 4th degree tear, it is likely that your quality of life has been affected in a variety of distressing ways. You may now be restricted in the work you can do and struggle to find the confidence to leave your home and socialise. Your confidence has probably suffered a significant shock.
If this distressing outcome is the product of negligent maternity care, you may be able to claim compensation.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors has been working with victims of negligent birth tears for many years and we have the expertise to guide you through these complex claims.
Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, if you think that you may have a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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