Compensation for Negligent Perineal Care in Childbirth
Negligent maternity care may justify a claim for compensation if the new mother suffers long-term bowel dysfunction.
Perineal care in maternity
Care of the mother's perineum following the birth of a baby is a crucial part of maternity care. Guidelines are clear as to the need for assessment and, where necessary, repair of any damage caused during the birth. A failure by medical professionals to ensure the integrity of the woman's anal function may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
A missed perineal tear
If signs of maternal perineal and anal damage are missed in the period following the vaginal birth of a baby, a woman may be left with a severe injury which will affect the whole of her future life.
For a few unfortunate women, the birth of their baby causes damage to their anal sphincter. The anal sphincter is the muscles, both external and internal, which, in combination, work to control bowel movement. These crucial muscles prevent the release of wind and faeces when it would be inappropriate, but they also allow the passing of wind and faeces when the woman chooses.
If the anal sphincter muscles are damaged, the woman's ability to control when she passes wind or faeces can be damaged.
Without diagnosis and repair, the symptoms of urgency or incontinence can become permanent.
Medical management of 3rd and 4th degree tears
- Diagnosis of 3rd and 4th degree tears which damage the anal muscles requires careful assessment following vaginal childbirth. A failure to carry out such an examination may be regarded as negligent. A misdiagnosis of trauma to the perineum or anus may, likewise, be regarded as substandard care.
- Once diagnosed, a 3rd or 4th degree tear needs to be repaired in an operating theatre by an experienced surgeon, fully, and using the appropriate materials and techniques. A substandard repair may be regarded as negligent.
Claiming compensation
If you are experiencing debilitating bowel problems, affecting your quality of life and causing a significant financial impact, due to poor-quality maternity care, you are entitled to make a claim for compensation.
A successful claim would take into account those financial losses which you would not have suffered but for the substandard level of care.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced solicitors who are experts in this specialised field of law.
Contact us today to discuss the suitability of making a claim for compensation for your substandard maternity care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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