Claiming Compensation for Life-changing Incontinence
Suddenly developing bowel incontinence following the birth of your baby can be a terrible shock and, without expert attention, the consequences may last a lifetime. If your symptoms are a result of poor medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
The risks of vaginal childbirth
Vaginal childbirth puts the new mother at risk of suffering a severe injury which may reduce her ability to control her bowel. There is an increased likelihood where the woman has not previously given birth or where the delivery requires instrumental assistance such as forceps.
Such a serious injury demands that the level of care provided to women during vaginal childbirth should be absolutely meticulous, minimising the risk in so far as that is possible and ensuring that any damage receives the best possible repair.
Medical management of severe birth tears
Sever birth tears are classified as 3rd and 4th degree tears and cause damage to the anal sphincter, the muscles which control, both voluntarily and involuntarily, the passing of wind and faeces. The higher the degree of tear, the more damage it will have caused and the more severe the likely impact. Such an injury needs to be repaired by an experienced surgeon in an operating theatre, rather than by a midwife in the maternity ward as may be the case with less severe perineal tears.
In order to achieve the earliest and most effective repair, and therefore, minimise the chance of long-term dysfunction, it is essential that any damage is diagnosed both promptly and accurately. A delay in diagnosis or a misdiagnosis of the nature of the injury may result in permanent bowel symptoms.
Every woman who has given birth through the vagina should receive a meticulous examination following the birth of her baby. This should involve an examination of the perineum between the vagina and the anus as well as a digital, rectal examination to assess any anal damage.
A failure to carry out such an examination may leave the new mother with severe, undiagnosed damage to her anal muscles. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
The long-term effects of incontinence can be utterly devastating, affecting a woman's self-confidence, her ability to work, her relationships and her ability to support her new baby. The financial impact can be significant.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the debilitating impact of incontinence due to poor medical care at the birth of your baby, contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
We have extensive experience of supporting women in making compensation claims for the poo quality of their treatment and one of our team of experienced lawyers 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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