Incontinence and Maternity Negligence Compensation
Severe long-term bowel problems are not a normal outcome of vaginal childbirth. Whilst around 5% of women giving birth this way do suffer a severe tear, with competent diagnosis and repair, their symptoms should resolve. On-going bowel difficulties may indicate an undiagnosed repair or an inadequate repair.
Maternity care of the perineum
Women who give birth through the vagina are susceptible to birth tears. Those giving birth for the first time or who require an instrumental delivery are especially vulnerable to a severe 3rd or 4th degree tear, which can compromise bowel function.
Medical professionals attendant at a vaginal birth are advised to provide manual protection of the perineum during the birth and to ensure that a thorough examination, including a digital rectal examination is carried out shortly after the birth.
Any injury should be accurately diagnosed according to the classifications of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as either a 1st, 2nd, 3a, 3b, 3c or 4th degree tear.
Where a severe tear (3rd or 4th degree ) has been diagnosed, this should be followed by a comprehensive and effective repair.
A failure to examine, diagnose and repair may be regarded as negligent.
Incontinence issues
Severe incontinence issues and extreme urgency when needing the toilet can significantly constrain the way in which a woman leads her life. Her job may now seem impossible to carry out. Especially in careers such as healthcare, education and hospitality, bowel problems may restrict what a woman can do. She may have to change jobs and suffer a significant loss of income as a result.
Broader issues of confidence and well-being may impact on the woman's quality of life.
If this distressing outcome I the result of negligent maternity care and would not have been the case with an acceptable quality of care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Making a claim
Successful compensation claims for medical negligence will take account of the financial impact of the negligence. However, they are extremely complex processes and require the expertise of a legal specialist to investigate the quality of your medical care and its impact on you.
If you believe that you may have a claim, contact Glynns Solicitors, to speak with a specialist solicitor, free of charge. We offer extensive expertise in birth tear medical negligence and have a history of success in high-value claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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