Compensation for Negligent Fistula in Vaginal Childbirth
If substandard medical care following vaginal childbirth leaves the new mother with a fistula and debilitating bowel symptoms, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
A rectovaginal fistula
A fistula is an abnormal passage or hole between two anatomical structures. A rectovaginal fistula is a hole between the rectum and the vagina. This distressing condition means that wind and faeces can travel from the bowel into the vagina and leak from there.
A rectovaginal fistula is an uncommon development of a severe birth tear during vaginal childbirth. The possibility of this development emphasises the need for scrupulous and professional care of women who have given birth through the vagina. Any sign of severe damage and the possibility of an injury to the anal sphincter requires immediate, skilled attention.
Third and fourth degree tears occur to around five in a hundred women who give birth via the vagina. It is more common amongst first-time mothers and women who have undergone an instrumental delivery.
A fourth degree tear extends from the vagina, across the perineum, through the anal sphincter muscles which control the bowel and into the lining of the anal canal. If the repair is not repaired promptly after the birth of the baby, it may prompt a fistula to develop with all the typical symptoms.
Delayed surgery for severe birth tears is not guaranteed to be successful and the woman's bowel difficulties may continue. Where a fistula has developed, it may be necessary for the new mother to be fitted with a stoma in order to provide bowel function.
Such a distressing outcome from what the woman probably anticipated would be a joyful event can cause a range of on-going and debilitating problems. Besides the emotional and practical difficulties which having a colostomy may provoke, there are employment issues which may arise.
Bowel difficulties of this severity may impact on the areas of employment which a woman can access and this, in turn, may affect her earning capacity.
If such an outcome is the product of negligent medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are struggling with the shocking symptoms of a severe birth tear which has not been effectively repaired, contact Glynns to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
We are experts in medical negligence compensation and one of our team will be happy to advise you as to the suitability of making a claim.
Contact us today to speak to one of our team.
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