Perineal Care Negligence in Childbirth and How to Claim Compensation
Maintaining the integrity of a woman's perineum and anal muscles following vaginal childbirth is crucial to long-term anal continence. A failure to do so by medical professionals may justify a claim for compensation.
Care of the perineum and anal sphincter
Due to the severity of the symptoms associated with unrepaired 3rd and 4th degree birth tears, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, in collaboration with the Royal College of Midwives, issued the following guidance and recommendations in their OASI Care Bundle of 2017.
- inform the woman about OASI (obstetric anal sphincter injuries) and what steps can be taken to minimise her risk
- use of manual perineal protection
- medio-lateral episiotomy at crowning to be used when indicated
- perineum must be examined after delivery and any tears graded according to the RCOG guidelines. Examination should include a per rectum check, even when the perineum appears intact.
A failure to follow these guidelines may be regarded as negligent.
If the woman suffers long-term bowel problems as a result of the negligent, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Symptoms of an undiagnosed and unrepaired severe birth tear
If a severe birth tear remains unrepaired, the new mother can suffer the following distressing and debilitating symptoms:
- loss of ability to prevent the passing of wind
- loss of ability to prevent the passing of faeces
- infections of the perineum
- discomfort of the perineum
- in the case of a 4th degree tear, possible leakage form the vagina and the need for a stoma
Not surprisingly, women who are experiencing these symptoms, often find that life can be challenging in many ways. Practical issues of access to a toilet can dominate a woman's day and thoughts and can restrict her capacity to work, travel, socialise and support her baby in its development.
If negligent medical care is responsible, in full or in part, for the symptoms and the associated difficulties, the new mother may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a legal specialist
If you or a loved one are struggling with the shocking consequences of a 3rd or 4th degree tear during childbirth, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law. One of our team of expert lawyers will be very happy to talk to you about your experience and 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.
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