Compensation for Incorrect Tear Diagnosis after Instrumental Birth
If the birth of your baby requires an instrumental delivery, you are at a higher risk than normal of suffering a severe perineal tear. If medical professionals fail to apply the correct procedures, leaving you with permanent bowel problems, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
At risk of a severe birth tear
Some women are at a greater risk than others of suffering a severe perineal tear during vaginal childbirth. This includes women of Asian ethnicity, women giving birth for the first time and women who are carrying a large baby. It also includes women who have needed instrumental assistance, particularly forceps, during the birth of their baby.
Consequently, if a women has required an instrumental delivery, it is essential that she undergoes a full examination of the perineum and anus following the birth. This should include a digital, rectal examination to check for any damage to the anus.
Long-term bowel dysfunction
A third degree tear causes damage to the external anal sphincter muscles and, sometimes, also to the internal muscles. A fourth degree tear will additionally damage the internal anal canal.
Undiagnosed and unrepaired, the long-term effects of such a severe injury can be utterly life-changing and distressing.
The anal sphincter muscles control the passing of wind and faeces and a loss of function means that a woman can become incontinent. She may pass either wind or faeces without intending to. Understandably, this can impact on pretty much every aspect of life and many women find such an outcome very difficult to cope with. They face the prospect of needing constant close access to a toilet with the possible negative impact on their work, their social contact and their ability to carry out everyday tasks such as doing the shopping.
Claiming compensation
If such a shocking outcome is due to poor-quality medical attention following an instrumental birth, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
A successful compensation claim will take into account any financial losses caused by the effects of the negligent care. If, for example, a woman finds that she can no longer work as a teacher because of her incontinence, her loss of income can be taken into account as part of her compensation claim.
Legal advice
If you are struggling with the appalling effects of a severe birth tear due to negligent medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors.
We are specialists in medical negligence compensation with extensive expertise in birth tear claims. One of our team will be very happy to talk to you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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