Claiming Compensation for Permanent Bowel Problems After Childbirth
To suffer permanent and debilitating bowel problems after vaginal childbirth is not normal. Some degree of altered bowel function may be understandable for a while but on-going symptoms may suggest that there is an undiagnosed issue.
If a woman experiences long-term bowel dysfunction after childbirth, it may be that she suffered a severe birth perineal tear during the birth which has not been diagnosed. Symptoms such as extreme urgency when needing the toilet, the unintentional passing of wind or faeces, or the passing of faeces through the vagina might all suggest this possible explanation.
3rd and 4th degree tears
3rd and 4th degree tears occur to around 5% of women during vaginal childbirth, especially those who are giving birth for the first time or where an instrumental delivery is needed.
These severe injuries cause a tear across the perineum and damage the anus. Tearing the muscles which control bowel movements means that a woman's bowel function is affected.
It is essential that 3rd and 4th degree tears are diagnosed by medical professionals as promptly after the birth as possible. This should then be followed by a skilled surgical repair in an operating theatre.
Negligent maternity care
Women who give birth through the vagina should undergo a thorough examination following the birth. If this does not occur, a 3rd or 4th degree tear may be missed and a repair will not take place. The relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having been negligent in their care.
A misdiagnosis, a failed diagnosis and a failure to repair effectively might all be regarded as negligent.
The effects of this type of medical negligence can be distressing indeed, leaving a woman feeling devastated by what has happened to her and affecting her self-confidence, her ability to work and her ability to bond with and care for her baby.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of this type of negligent care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. A successful claim can address the financial losses caused by the negligent care, such as loss of income, as well as taking account of the new mother's pain and suffering.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation claims. We have extensive experience in maternal birth injury claims and one of our team of expert lawyers will be very happy to talk to you about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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