First-time Mothers and Birth Tear Negligence
Women giving birth for the first time are at a greater than average risk of suffering a severe perineal tear. A failure by medical professionals to identify and repair any such damage may be regarded as negligent.
Severe perineal tears
A severe perineal tear is one which damages the muscles around the anus as well as the region between the vagina and the anus.
They are often referred to as third or fourth degree tears depending upon the extent and severity of the damage.
The difficulty with severe perineal or anal tears is that they have the potential to cause significant bowel problems. If the anal sphincter muscles are damaged, a woman may lose her ability to control the passing of wind and faeces.
To avoid this debilitating and distressing outcome, it is essential that any damage is promptly diagnosed and repaired.
Examination and diagnosis
The first step in achieving a repair is for the medical professionals attendant at the birth to carry out a thorough examination, specifically to check for perineal and anal damage.
A failure to make such an assessment may be regarded as substandard care.
Following assessment, an accurate diagnosis is necessary, classifying a tear as either a 1st, 2nd, 3rd (a, b, or c) or 4th degree tear. This degree of accuracy is necessary to ensure that the tear is fully and effectively repaired.
A misdiagnosis of any damage, leading to a failure to repair, may be regarded as negligent.
Negligence and compensation claims
Negligent care of perineal and anal damage following vaginal childbirth can leave a new mother with permanent bowel dysfunction which can affect virtually every aspect of her life, including her mental health.
If on-going symptoms and associated difficulties are due to substandard medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. A successful compensation claim can provide recompense for financial losses, such as a reduced income, caused by the negligence.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of an unrepaired severe 3rd or 4th degree tear following childbirth, contact Glynns Solicitors.
We are a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in birth tear compensation claims.
One of our team of specialist solicitors will be very happy to discuss your situation with you and advise as to the best way forward.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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