Inadequate Stitching of Perineal Tear Causes Bowel Symptoms
Many women suffer a tear to the vagina and perineum during vaginal childbirth. Most of these may not even require stitching but, when they do, it is vital that a competent practitioner achieves a full and effective repair.
Repairing severe birth tears
If a woman has suffered a severe 3rd or 4th degree tear during a vaginal birth, she needs an accurate diagnosis. Once this has been achieved, it is vital that she undergoes a skilled, accurate and thorough repair in an operating theatre.
For this to be a success, it is important that the methods and materials used are appropriate to the nature and location of the injury, whether it be an external or internal anal sphincter injury or, as is sometimes the case, both.
It is also necessary that the entire extent of the injury is repaired.
Symptoms of a severe birth tear
If the medical practitioner fails in any aspect of this repair, it is possible that the woman may continue to suffer appalling bowel problems for the rest of her life.
Poor quality stitching or an inadequate repair can mean that the repair breaks down and the woman's bowels struggle to function. She may start to pass wind or faeces without meaning to. She might find that she only has a few seconds to get to a toilet once she becomes aware of the need to empty her bowel. These symptoms would suggest that her tear repair has not been successful.
The impact of wind and faecal incontinence can, understandably, affect the woman's ability to work, travel and care for her children. She may feel reluctant to leave her home and become increasingly isolated.
Medical negligence
A poor quality 3rd or 4th degree tear repair should not happen. Only an experienced and skilled practitioner should carry out such a complex repair.
A medical practitioner who has carried out an inadequate or poor-quality repair may be regarded as having provided substandard care. If the woman suffers significant long-term symptoms, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are struggling with the appalling, on-going effects of a poor repair of your birth tear, contact Glynns Solicitors today.
A successful compensation claim can help you to cope with the impact of your symptoms as well as providing recompense for lost income both past and future.
Here at Glynns we have supported numerous women in making claims for poor management of severe perineal tears and will be very happy to discuss your situation with you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
