Employment Losses and Claiming Compensation for Perineal Tear Negligence
A severe perineal tear can cause debilitating bowel problems, leading to loss of employment. If this has affected you or a loved one, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Perineal tears and bowel function
Many women experience a perineal tear during vagina l childbirth but, in most cases, this does not cause lasting damage to bowel function.
For around 5% to 10%, however, a severe extended tear occurs which, without competent and prompt medical attention, may leave a woman with permanent bowel problems.
If a perineal tear extends beyond the perineum and causes damage to the anal muscles, the normal functioning of the bowel may become compromised. This can lead to incontinence of wind and faeces.
Bowel dysfunction and employment losses
If a woman is unable to control her bowel movements and wind, it may restrict the type of employment she can undertake. For example, it may be difficult for her to work within the fields of hospitality, healthcare, education, policing and retail. Even within an environment where she feels able to function, the woman may need to have close access to toilet facilities in order to be able to manage her bowel problems.
For some women, the psychological effects of bowel dysfunction also add to the difficulty of working.
These problems can cause significant income losses. A woman may find that she is no longer able to engage in the type of work she had previously enjoyed or that she can now only manage restricted hours.
Medical negligence and compensation
Medical professionals attendant at a vaginal birth have a duty to examine a woman after the birth to check for any signs of perineal and anal trauma. Any damage should be accurately diagnosed and a prompt and effective repair should be carried out by a suitably qualified and experienced surgeon.
A failure to follow these guidelines, leading to a failure to diagnose and/or repair a 3rd or 4th degree perineal tear may be regarded as negligent. If such negligence causes a woman to suffer financial losses and debilitating symptoms, the law entitles the woman to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in perineal tear claims.
Contact us today if you are suffering from the appalling impact of an unrepaired severe perineal tear following vaginal childbirth. One of our team of experienced lawyers will be happy to discuss the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in maternal birth trauma claims. Contact us to day to talk to one of our experienced lawyers about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.