Bowel Problems After Childbirth: Is Compensation Possible?
Longterm severe bowel problems following vaginal childbirth are not normal. If you are experiencing this extremely distressing situation, it may be that you suffered a 3rd or 4th degree tear during the birth of your child which has not been diagnosed or repaired. If this is the case, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Bowel dysfunction and severe tears
On-going bowel problems such as leakage or incontinence of wind and faeces following the birth of your baby may be a sign of a severe perineal tar.
Third and fourth degree tears, which are not uncommon in vaginal childbirth, cause damage to the anal sphincter. This is the internal and external anal muscles which work in combination to control the passing of wind and faeces. If these muscles are damaged, the control may be lost, allowing appalling and distressing symptoms to develop.
Consequently, scrupulous medical care in the form of an accurate diagnosis and effective repair are crucial in order to prevent long-term distress.
A failure of medical care, such as a failure to diagnose, a misdiagnosis or a failure of repair, may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
The impact of bowel dysfunction
The practical consequences of bowel dysfunction can be wide-ranging, affecting a woman's confidence, her ability to work and her personal relationships. It can cause a woman to feel reluctant to leave her home, making it hard to achieve ordinary everyday tasks, and often leading to social isolation.
The impact on a woman's working life can be devastating. She may find that she is now restricted either in the nature of employment she can undertake or the hours she can manage, or both. Work in hospitality, education, policing and healthcare, amongst many other areas of employment may now feel inaccessible and a woman may suffer a severe reduction in her earning capacity as a result.
If such a distressing outcome is the product of negligent maternity care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice. If you or a loved one are struggling with the consequences of negligent maternity care, contact us to speak with a specialist solicitor 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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