A Rectovaginal Fistula and Compensation for Maternity Negligence
A rectovaginal fistula, between the vagina and the rectum, can be an unanticipated and life-changing consequence of vaginal childbirth.
If medical professionals failed to diagnose and repair the injury causing this appalling consequence, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Vaginal childbirth and a rectovaginal fistula
A woman giving birth through the vagina, especially a first-time mother or a woman requiring an instrumental delivery, can occasionally suffer a severe tear which damages her anal sphincter.
The anal sphincter is the muscles, both internal and external, which control bowel movements and the passing of wind. Their combined function allows an individual to prevent the passing of wind and faeces when choosing to do so and, likewise, allow those bowel functions when appropriate.
Damage to the anal sphincter, which may occur as a consequence of a perineal tear, will compromise the function of those muscles and cause a woman to suffer distressing symptoms.
The most severe form of tear, a 4th degree tear, additionally damages the lining of the anal canal and can result in an abnormal passage, or fistula, between two parts of the anatomy which would not normally be connected.
This can result in leakage from the vagina and the need for a stoma to be fitted.
The psychological, as well as the physical, consequences can be life-changing and, if this outcome is considered to be the result of negligent maternity care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Diagnosis of severe birth tears
The distress and disability which can accompany severe birth tears means that maternity care should be meticulous in its attention and care in order to ensure that all tears are correctly diagnosed and promptly and effectively repaired.
All women who give birth through the vagina should undergo a thorough examination after the birth including a digital rectal examination to assess the condition of the anal sphincter.
A failure to carry out an examination, a failure to identify and diagnose a severe tear or a failure to carry out a repair may all leave a new mother vulnerable to the development of a rectovaginal fistula and the appalling consequences.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice.
If you are struggling with the shocking consequences of a fistula due to negligent maternity care, contact us to speak to a solicitor about 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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