Can I Get Compensation for a 3a Birth Tear?
A 3a birth tear is a form of anal damage during vaginal childbirth. Without prompt and skilled medical care, it can leave a woman with permanent bowel problems.
Anal damage during childbirth
Childbirth damage to the perineum and anus is classified according to severity. The most severe forms of injury are referred to as 3rd and 4th degree tears or obstetric anal sphincter injuries.
Third degree tears can damage either just the external sphincter or both the internal and external muscles. The anal sphincter muscles work together to control, allow and prevent the passing of wind and faeces. A failure in the functioning of these muscles means that both wind and faeces may be released without control at times inconvenient and embarrassing to the individual.
A 3a tear causes damage to less than 50% of the external sphincter but can still impact on a woman's ability to control her bowel function.
Medical care of anal tears in childbirth
Anal tears are a risk of vaginal childbirth, especially in first-time mothers or following an instrumental birth. They are not necessarily a result of medical negligence. However, it is imperative that they receive prompt attention shortly after the birth of the baby.
- A thorough examination of the mother including a digital rectal examination is essential in order to identify any anal damage
- Any and all damage needs to be accurately classified according to the guidelines of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
- Any anal damage must be repaired promptly in an operating theatre by an experienced surgeon
It is in the course of these vital procedures that problems sometimes occur, leaving the new mother with either an undiagnosed, misdiagnosed or unrepaired severe anal tear.
In these circumstances, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. Bowel incontinence can have a devastating impact on a woman's life, causing a loss of self-confidence and affecting her ability to work and her willingness to undertake activities which might compromise her access to a toilet.
Claiming compensation
If you are struggling with the shocking impact of bowel incontinence due to negligent medical care following the birth of your baby, contact Glynns Solicitors. We are a specialist medical negligence legal practice with considerable expertise in birth tear compensation claims.
One of our team of experienced solicitors will be very happy to discuss your situation with a view to assessing the suitability of making a compensation claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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