Can I Claim Compensation for Post-natal Bowel Incontinence?
Long-term bowel incontinence following vaginal childbirth may suggest that you have suffered an undiagnosed severe birth tear. It may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Post-natal bowel problems
Many women suffer some degree of bowel problem after they have given birth. However, this should improve over a fairly short period of time. It is not normal for this situation to continue months after the birth of your baby and may indicate a problem with the bowel muscles.
Vaginal childbirth often causes a tear to the area around the vagina. Occasionally, this tear can extend to the anus and damage the muscles which control the bowel. If this happens, it is vital that the medical professionals who were present at the birth of the baby identify that this has happened. They need to carry out a thorough examination of the region between the vagina and the anus and check to ensure that the anus has not been damaged.
If this doesn't happen, it is possible that a new mother can suffer severe damage to her bowel without realising and without medical professionals arranging for a prompt repair.
The on-going impact
For many women, suffering embarrassing bowel problems, such as incontinence of both wind and faeces, is not something they can easily talk about. Many women avoid discussing their problems with friends and family and become increasingly isolated. It may be months or longer before their symptoms force them to ask the GP for help.
Unfortunately severe bowel problems can affect many aspects of life including the type of work a woman can undertake. If a woman had previously worked in hospitality or education or the police, it may not be possible to continue in that employment with long-term bowel problems.
Medical negligence
In order for any bowel damage to be repaired, it is essential that the injury is accurately and completely diagnosed shortly after the birth of the baby. If the full extent of the damage is not recognised, only part of the injury may be repaired. The new mother can still suffer debilitating bowel problems as the most serious part of her injury may not have been spotted.
Long-term bowel problems can be distressing but a successful compensation can help a woman to deal with the difficulties it causes. For example, it may be possible to make a claim for loss of income if a woman can no longer work in a particular type of employment or is only able to work part-time.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are experiencing on-going bowel problems due to a failure by medical professionals to diagnose and repair your birth tear, contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist lawyer about your situation.
We have supported numerous women in making successful claims relating to their perineal damage and one of our team will be very happy to discuss your experience with you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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