Severe Tear Negligence and First-time Assisted Birth
First-time mothers are at a higher risk of a severe maternal birth tear. A failure by medical professionals to provide adequate care may lead to a claim for compensation.
First-time mothers and instrumental births
The recent National Maternity & Perinatal Audit identified that women giving birth for the first time who require an instrumental delivery are more likely to experience a severe birth tear than women who have not required an instrumental delivery and women who have previously given birth.
It is essential, therefore, that these women receive the most scrupulous maternity care to ensure that any evidence of a tear is investigated, that the woman undergoes a thorough examination and, if they have suffered a 3rd or 4th degree tear, that it is diagnosed accurately and repaired promptly by a skilled and experienced surgeon.
An instrumental delivery, often used where there is a problem with the delivery of the baby, may involve the use of either a forceps or ventouse, forceps being associated with a higher level of severe maternal tear.
Care of the mother and severe tears
If a woman suffers a third or fourth degree tear during childbirth, she is at risk of developing significant and debilitating bowel problems which may impact on her ability to work, her quality of life and her self-confidence.
Accurate diagnosis and a skilled repair are key to a new mother avoiding such a distressing outcome.
A thorough examination following a vaginal birth, especially where an instrumental delivery has been necessary, should include a digital rectal examination, specifically to ensure that any severe damage is identified.
Third and fourth degree tears cause injury to the anal sphincter, the muscles which control bowel movement, and a failure to examine, diagnose or repair effectively may be regarded as negligent and justify a claim for compensation.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one have suffered a third or fourth degree tear which has not been diagnosed accurately, you may be entitled to make a claim for compensation for any financial losses as well as the patient's pain and suffering.
Where severe bowel symptoms have caused a reduction in employment and income, such financial losses would be included in a successful claim for compensation.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of lawyers, all of whom are experts in this complex field of law.
Contact us today to talk 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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