Anal Muscle Injury and Compensation for Negligent Maternity Care
According to the guidelines of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as well as the maternity Care Bundle, if a woman has given birth though the vagina, she should undergo a perineal examination after the birth, including a digital rectal examination.
If this does not happen, it is likely that any injury to the anal muscles will be missed. As a result the new mother may suffer permanent and debilitating bowel problems in the form of incontinence of both wind and faeces. It may also be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the consequences which can often be significant.
Anal muscle injuries are also referred to as OASI or 3rd and 4th degree tears. It is absolutely essential that, if a woman has experienced such a tear, it is diagnosed and repaired shortly after the birth of her baby, in order to prevent a lifetime of problems.
These shocking injuries vary according to extent with a 3a tear only damaging up to 50% of the external anal muscle and 4th degree tears extending all the way through both external and internal muscles and into the lining of the anal canal.
A correct and full diagnosis is vital to ensure a full repair. A failure to repair, a failure of diagnosis or a poor repair may all be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation if the new mother suffers as a result.
Claiming compensation
If it is found that you have suffered from substandard maternity care and that your bowel health is compromised as a result, a successful claim would address the problems which this situation may be causing.
For example, if it is now difficult for you to work because of the severity of oyur symptoms, your loss of income would be include in your claim. Any additional costs, such as for treatment or equipment, would also be incorporated into your claim.
Speak to a legal specialist
Compensation claims for medical negligence are, as you can image, extremely complex. If you think that you may have experienced negligent maternity care, contact a legal specialist who will be able to provide both expertise in such claims and understanding of your situation.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced solicitors and a wealth of expertise in birth tear claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
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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