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How Do I Get Compensation for a 4th Degree Tear?

How Do I Get Compensation for a 4th Degree Tear?

If you are suffering on-going problems due to a failure to treat a 4th degree tear, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. Contact Glynns Solicitors today.

Suffering a 4th degree tear during vaginal childbirth is not necessarily a sign of negligence. A small minority of women do experience severe perineal tears during childbirth, especially if they were carrying a large baby, it was their first vaginal birth or they needed instrumental assistance to give birth.

If a 4th degree tear is diagnosed by medical professionals at the time of the birth and repaired competently, most women make a good recovery and a claim for compensation would probably not be considered appropriate.

If a women suffers a 4th degree tear which is not diagnosed or is misdiagnosed and does not receive a full and effective repair, the on-going symptoms suffered by the woman may be regarded as the result of negligence.

In these circumstances, a successful compensation claim can help the new mother to deal with the array of symptoms produced and the difficulties this may be causing in her life.

The long-term symptoms of a 4th degree tear can be both distressing and debilitating. A woman who cannot control the passing of wind and faeces may face significant problems in employment and may struggle to socialise, travel or even leave the house for fear of bowel accidents. It may also make it harder for the woman to support and bring up her baby.

A 4th degree tear can occur during vaginal childbirth as the perineum stretches to allow the baby to be born. Occasionally, the tear continues right across the perineum and damages the anal sphincter muscles and the internal lining of the anal canal.

When a woman has given birth through the vagina, it is essential that she undergoes a thorough examination of the perineum including a digital, rectal examination of the anus to assess for any sphincter damage.

A failure to carry out an examination or a failure to diagnose any damage accurately may lead to an inadequate repair, or no repair at all. This may be considered as negligent.

Speak to a solicitor

If you are struggling with the appalling impact of an unrepaired 4th degree tear due to a failure to diagnose or repair your injury, call Glynns today.

We have supported numerous women in making highly-successful claims for the on-going impact of negligent perineal care in childbirth, and one of our specialist medical negligence solicitors will be very happy to talk to you about your experience.

Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.

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