Post-Natal Fistula, Negligence and Compensation
Occasionally a woman may develop a fistula following vaginal childbirth. If medical professionals fail to diagnose and treat this debilitating condition promptly, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
What causes a post-natal fistula?
A fistula is a hole or breach between two parts of the anatomy which would not normally be present. In the circumstances of vaginal childbirth a recto-vaginal fistula can develop between the bowel and the vagina.
This can sometimes result from a 4th degree tear which has occurred as a baby is being delivered through the vagina. A 4th degree tear is an injury to the new mother which damages the skin and muscle from the vagina, across the perineum, through the anal muscles and into the lining of the anal canal. Without prompt medical attention, this injury can cause a fistula.
Problems of a rectovaginal fistula
The symptoms of a fistula can be distressing, debilitating and life-changing.
If a fistula has developed between the bowel and the vagina, faecal matter which would normally remain confined within the bowel, can seep into the vagina and leak uncontrollably from there instead of from the anus.
The woman affected may require surgery and the creation of a colostomy in order to provide bowel function. Not only may her self-confidence suffer but she may also find that her symptoms, as well as causing significant practical difficulties, also affect her ability to work, socialise and support her child.
Medical negligence
A severe birth tear is a known risk of vaginal childbirth, especially in women giving birth for the first time and women giving birth with the assistance of forceps.
It is recommended that all women who have given birth through the vagina should be given a thorough examination following birth. This should include a digital rectal examination to check for a severe 3rd or 4th degree tear and any damage to the anus.
If medical professionals fail to carry out such a thorough examination, a 4th degree tear and fistula will be missed, no repair will take place and the new mother may suffer appalling symptoms for the rest of her life.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of a fistula due to negligent medical care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation. The law entitles a patient to claim compensation for the impact of symptoms which would not have developed without the negligence.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, to talk to an experienced lawyer about your situation.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in maternal birth trauma claims. Contact us to day to talk to one of our experienced lawyers about your situation.
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
