OASI Damage and When to Claim Compensation
If you are suffering with the consequences of an OASI, contact Glynns Solicitors to discuss the possibility of a claim for compensation.
OASI damage
An OASI (obstetric anal sphincter injury) is a risk of vaginal childbirth. Especially in the case of first-time mothers or women undergoing an instrumental forceps or ventouse delivery, a severe tear across the perineum is a possibility due to the physical pressure of the birth.
The damage which is caused by an OASI affects the ability of the anal muscles to do their job effectively. In normal, healthy circumstances, the external and internal anal muscles (the anal sphincter) work together to control the passing of wind and faeces (poo). Severe birth tears, also referred to as OASI or 3rd and 4th degree tears, damage those muscles and, unless they are effectively repaired, will leave the new mother suffering from bowel problems such as urgency or leakage.
As a recognised risk, it is reasonable to expect that medical professionals are alert to the possibility of this severe childbirth injury. Consequently, if an anal injury is missed or misdiagnosed, the relevant medical practitioner may be regarded as having provided substandard or negligent care.
The following may lead to a failure of repair and on-going symptoms:
- A failure to carry out a thorough examination of a woman after she has given birth through the vagina. This should include a digital rectal examination.
- A failure to recognise damage to the anal sphincter
- A misdiagnosis of injury to the anal sphincter
- A failure to carry out an effective and comprehensive repair
Consequences of OASI negligence
If a woman suffers an OASI during the birth of her baby but does not receive an effective repair, she is likely to experience significant bowel problems. Symptoms such as incontinence may well cause her to suffer significant financial losses. For example, many types of employment may no longer be accessible or realistic for an individual suffering from bowel incontinence, such as hospitality, healthcare and education.
If such an outcome is found to have been the consequence of negligent medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation which would address any financial losses.
Making a claim
The best place to start if you think you may have a claim, is to talk to a legal specialist. If appropriate, they will be able to obtain your medical records and carry out an investigation into the quality of your care and its impact on your health, well-being and quality of life.
Bear in mind that such claims need to be initiated with a court within three years of the date of the alleged negligence, so don't delay before contacting a legal specialist as they will need plenty of time in which to analyse your medical care.
Medical negligence specialists
Glynns solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers and extensive experience of birth tear claims.
Contact us today to speak with a 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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