Forceps Birth Negligence and When to Claim Compensation.
The use of forceps in an instrumental birth can increase the risk that the new mother may suffer a severe birth tear. Meticulous medical care is necessary. If maternity professionals fail in their care of the new mother, leaving her to face the appalling symptoms of a 3rd or 4th degree tear, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Forceps deliveries and medical negligence
- If a decision is made to carry out a forceps delivery to ease the arrival of the baby, it is generally regarded as necessary to carry out a mediolateral episiotomy to reduce the risk of a severe birth tear. A failure to do so may be regarded as negligent.
- All women who have undergone a vaginal birth, and especially an instrumental delivery, should receive a thorough examination after the birth, including a digital rectal examination to assess the condition of the anal sphincter. If this is not done, a 3rd or 4th degree tear will not be diagnosed and will not be repaired. The relevant professionals may be regarded as having been negligent in their care of the new mother.
- If injury has occurred to the anal sphincter, it is essential that it is diagnosed accurately and precisely as either a 3a, 3b, 3c or 4th degree tear in order to ensure that a comprehensive repair is carried out.
- If a severe tear is diagnosed, it should be effectively and appropriately repaired by an experienced surgeon in an operating theatre shortly after the delivery of the baby
The impact of negligent birth tear care
If a severe birth tear does not receive an effective repair, the new mother is at risk of developing permanent, and possibly worsening, bowel problems. This can range from discomfort and infections to urgency, leakage and the need for a stoma. The severity of the problem cannot be overstated.
The impact on a woman's life can be dramatic, compromising her ability to work, undermining her confidence, necessitating surgery and treatment, and damaging her bond with her new baby.
When to make a claim
If you are struggling with the appalling symptoms of a severe birth tear which has not received effective and competent medical care, talk to a specialist solicitor about the possibility of making a claim for compensation. A successful claim will address the financial losses experienced by the new mother such as a loss of income or the costs of equipment and treatment as required due to her bowel problems.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in severe birth tear claims.
This specialisation ensures that we have the skills ready and waiting to help you in the most efficient and economical way.
It also means that we can offer No Win No Fee medical negligence funding which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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