OASI, Incontinence and Compensation for Negligent Maternity Care
An obstetric anal sphincter injury need not lead to permanent bowel dysfunction. If it does, it may be that your maternity care was substandard and you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
OASI and incontinence
An obstetric anal sphincter injury is otherwise known as either a third or fourth degree tear. It is a severe injury which occasionally occurs during vaginal childbirth and which damages the muscles which control and -prevent bowel movements and wind.
An OASI may affect only the external anal muscle, both internal and external muscles, or in the worst cases, it may additionally cause damage to the internal lining of the anal canal.
A result of an OASI, or severe tear, can leave a new mother struggling with problems controlling her bowels, experiencing urgency when needing to go the toilet or suffering incontinence of both wind and faeces.
Sometimes a new mother may not even realise that she has suffered a severe tear. If it not diagnosed and repaired at the time of her baby's birth, she may believe that her symptoms are normal. However, for severe bowel problems to continue months after a baby's birth is not normal and merits investigation.
Negligent maternity care of the perineum
The region between the vagina and the anus is extremely vulnerable to tearing during vaginal childbirth and it is essential that new mothers receive scrupulous attention to the area. If a severe tear is diagnosed, it must be repaired in an operating theatre as shortly after the birth as possible in order to provide the best chance of recovery.
When a woman has required an instrumental delivery or is giving birth for the first time, she is at an even greater risk.
If a new mother does not undergo a thorough examination following the birth of her baby, she may have been the victim of medical negligence. If an examination did take place but her injury was misdiagnosed, leaving her with permanent symptoms due to an inadequate repair, she may again be regarded as having received substandard care.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of negligent maternity care, such as loss of employment due to debilitating symptoms, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns, specialists in medical negligence law, to discuss the possibility of making a claim for compensation which would address the pain, suffering and financial impact of negligent care.
Contact us today to discuss the suitability of making a claim for compensation for your substandard maternity care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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