Can I Get Compensation for Faecal Incontinence after Childbirth?
Faecal incontinence can devastate a woman's life, reducing her ability to work, travel and socialise. If this appalling outcome is the result of medical negligence, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Childbirth and faecal incontinence
It is shocking to think that natural childbirth can leave you unable to control your bowels but this is the case for 5 - 10% of women who give birth vaginally.
A severe perineal tear during childbirth can damage the muscles of the bowel to such an extent that the ability to prevent and control the passing of wind and faeces is lost.
It is, therefore, vital that any damage to the perineum and anus during childbirth is diagnosed precisely and accurately shortly after the birth and promptly repaired by someone skilled, experienced and competent to do so.
A failure to do either of these things may leave the new mother unable to work and restricted in her confidence to leave the house.
The process of vaginal childbirth can cause a tear to start from the vagina and, if the woman is extremely unlucky, extend across the perineum to the anus where it can damage both the external and internal muscles.
Examination after childbirth
It is important that women who have undergone vaginal childbirth receive a thorough examination of the perineum and anal area after the birth. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends that this should include a digital, rectal examination, precisely for the purpose of identifying any anal damage.
If this does not take place, the woman may be left with an unrepaired 3rd or 4th degree tear which can start to cause symptoms of urgency and incontinence.
Medical negligence
- A failure to carry out a thorough examination, thereby missing any damage may be regarded as negligent
- A misdiagnosis of a severe 3rd or 4th degree tear as a lesser 1st or 2nd degree tear may be considered negligent
- A failure to repair a severe tear fully and effectively may also be regarded as substandard care.
Where the woman is left with on-going and debilitating symptoms, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are struggling with the distressing and life-changing incontinence of an unrepaired 3rd or 4th degree, contact Glynns today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
We have supported numerous women in pursuing highly-successful compensation claims for perineal tear negligence and will be very happy to advise you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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