Maternity Perineal Damage and Compensation for Medical Negligence
If you are struggling with perineal symptoms following the birth of your baby, it is possible that you suffered a severe perineal tear which has not been repaired. Or which has not been adequately repaired.
Severe perineal tear symptoms
A severe perineal tear is sometimes referred to as a 3rd or 4th degree tear depending on the extent and location of the injury. These tears extend beyond the perineum and cause damage to the anal sphincter, the muscles which control bowel movements.
A 3rd or 4th degree tear is a serious injury which requires a repair by an experienced surgeon in order to ensure that the new mother is not left to suffer appalling and life-changing symptoms.
Without an effective repair, a severe perineal tear can cause the following symptoms and problems:
- Inability to control the passing of wind
- Inability to control the passing of faeces
- Perineal infections
- Perineal discomfort
- Leakage from the vagina if a 4th degree tear leads to a rectovaginal fistula
- The need for a stoma
A woman who is suffering with these symptoms may find it difficult to work and may struggle to leave her home due to loss of confidence. Many women find it difficult to bond with a support their new-born baby when they are struggling with the impact of severe bowel problems.
Acceptable medical care during vaginal childbirth
The severity of these symptoms and their effects means that medical professionals need to be absolutely scrupulous in the quality of their care of a new mother.
Following a vaginal birth, the new mother needs to undergo a thorough perineal examination. This should include a digital rectal examination to check that any damage to the anal sphincter is identified.
If any such damage is noticed, it needs to be accurately diagnosed and effectively repaired.
Making a claim for medical negligence
If negligent maternity care has left you with appalling bowel symptoms and a loss of income or increased personal care costs, you may be able to make a claim for compensation.
In the first instance, you should seek the advice of a specialist medical negligence lawyer. They will be able to access your medical records, assess the quality of your care and identify the impact of the negligence on your quality of life.
Speak to a specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice. If you are suffering the consequences of negligent medical care, contact us to talk with an experienced solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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