Perineal Tear Negligence and the Impact on Quality of Life
Unless severe perineal tears in childbirth are competently repaired shortly after the birth, the new mother's quality of life may take a rapid turn for the worse. Such a scenario may justify a claim for compensation.
Severe perineal tears
A severe perineal tear, also referred to as third and fourth degree tears, can cause permanent damage to the functioning of the bowel. Without prompt diagnosis and repair, a woman may lose her capacity to prevent the uncontrolled passing of both wind and faeces.
The impact can be physically and practically wide-ranging as well as emotionally devastating, causing a feeling that life revolves almost entirely around the effects of their injury.
The possibility of passing wind or faeces unexpectedly can necessitate a variety of solutions:
- Constant close access to a toilet
- Regular changes of underwear and clothing
- Reducing the occasions to leave the home
- Having a stoma fitted
Many women who suffer from such appalling circumstances often also suffer from loss of self-confidence and can become depressed and isolated. Their personal and social relationships can suffer at a time when support is absolutely crucial.
In addition to this, their symptoms may also impact on their ability to work and the nature of employment which is now open to them. Incontinence of faeces may make several areas of employment completely inaccessible such as catering and hospitality, care work and healthcare, education, policing and retail.
A woman may find that her planned career is no longer open to her and that her income is significantly reduced by the impact of the negligence at the time of her baby's birth.
Claiming compensation
If a severe birth tear is not diagnosed or is misdiagnosed, leading to an ineffective repair, or no repair at all, the relevant medical professionals who attended the birth may be regarded as having provided only substandard care.
If this is established by independent medical experts and if it is clear that the new mother's on-going symptoms and financial losses are a result of the negligence, then it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
A successful compensation claim will, where appropriate, take into account the loss of income caused by the negligence of medical professionals and any other associated financial losses such as care costs.
Expert legal advice
If you or a loved one are struggling with the shocking impact of a severe perineal tear due to poor-quality medical care following childbirth, contact Glynns Solicitors.
We are a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in obstetric anal sphincter injury claims.
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
