Compensating Long-term Bowel Dysfunction After Birth Tear
Around 5% of new mothers are believed to suffer a severe tear during vaginal childbirth which damages their bowel control. With a prompt diagnosis and high-quality repair, they can make a good recovery. Poor-quality care, however, can mean permanent symptoms.
Anal sphincter injuries
Third and fourth degree tears during childbirth cause severe injuries to the muscles which control the bowel. If these injuries are not properly repaired shortly after the birth, the symptoms may become permanent.
If the anal sphincter, which controls the bowel, is damaged, the new mother may lose her ability to control her bowel. In effect, this means that she may not be able to prevent the uncontrolled passing of wind and faeces.
The impact of such appalling injuries and symptoms can be wide-ranging and utterly life-changing.
- The practical implications are considerable. Access to a toilet can become an over-riding obsession. Leaving the house to travel even a short distance may present numerous problems relating to the possibility of a bowel accident. Travelling on public transport may feel impossible.
- The psychological effect can be severe also. The social stigma associated with loss of bowel control may mean the woman becomes socially isolated, losing her self-confidence and struggling with personal relationships.
- The financial implications can also be significant if the woman is unable to work or restricted by the areas of employment which are no longer available to her.
Medical management of severe birth tears
Severe anal sphincter injuries during vaginal childbirth are a well-known problem and the occurrence rate may even be increasing.
It is therefore a clear requirement that medical professionals who are present at a vaginal birth ensure that any injury to the woman's perineum and anal muscles is clearly and promptly diagnosed.
A failure to diagnose such an injury is likely to mean that the new mother does not undergo a repair. Her symptoms are, therefore, likely to continue and possibly get worse.
In this situation, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having provided substandard care which has contributed to the woman's long-term problems.
It may be appropriate for the new mother to make a claim for compensation. If, for example, she has had to give up or reduce her work, she may get compensation for her financial losses.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the debilitating and distressing impact of a severe birth tear due to poor medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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