Missed OASI and How to Claim Compensation
If your life has been devastated by a missed post-natal OASI, you may be able to claim compensation for the impact which it has had on your quality of life.
Obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI)
An OASI is an injury which damages the external and possibly also the internal muscles around the anus. This can occur during vaginal childbirth, especially when a woman is given an instrumental delivery, is carrying a large baby or is a first-time mother.
A tear begins at the vagina and, if the woman is extremely unfortunate, it can travel across the perineum and extend into the anal sphincter. The most severe tears, 3rd and 4th degree tears, damage these muscles which control the passing of wind and faeces. This damage can leave a new mother suffering extreme urgency when needing to go to the toilet or struggling with incontinence.
Diagnosing an OASI
An undiagnosed or unrepaired OASI can cause permanent bowel dysfunction. It is essential that it is diagnosed shortly after the birth of the baby and repaired promptly and effectively.
Diagnosis is achieved through a thorough examination of the new mother after the birth. In order to check for any damage to the anal muscles, a digital rectal examination should be carried out. This should facilitate the correct classification of any damage, triggering an appropriate repair.
Negligent medical care of a woman's perineum following childbirth can include the following:
- A failure to carry out a thorough examination including a digital rectal examination
- A failure to identify any damage which has occurred
- A misdiagnosis of any damage
- A failure to carry out an appropriate and effective repair
Claiming compensation
If a woman has been adversely affected by substandard maternity care, she can claim compensation for the impact it has had on her life. For example, if she suffers severe bowel problems due to an undiagnosed OASI and is unable to work to the same extent or in the same field of employment as prior to the birth, she would be able to claim compensation for her lost income.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in high-value OASI claims. If you are suffering the effects of an undiagnosed severe birth tear, contact us to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
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
