Shoulder Dystocia and 3rd Degree Tear Compensation
A failure to diagnose and repair a severe birth tear following shoulder dystocia may be regarded as substandard medical care.
What is shoulder dystocia?
Shoulder dystocia is an occurrence which occasionally happens during vaginal childbirth. Once the birth process has started, and the baby's head has emerged, it is possible for the baby to become stuck behind the mother's pubic bone.
This is more likely with a large baby, with a mother who is diabetic or where the labour has been protracted.
The majority of babies who experience shoulder dystocia are born successfully and healthily but it will probably mean that the mother requires additional assistance from the medical professionals attending the birth.
Shoulder dystocia and perineal tears
Women who give birth vaginally and whose baby suffers shoulder dystocia during the birth are more likely to experience a severe perineal tear. Increased pressure on the vagina and perineum may lead to an extended tear which affects the woman's anal muscles.
Perineal tears of this severity are classified as third or fourth degree tears. This means that they have damaged the anal sphincter to a greater or lesser degree.
Any damage to the anal sphincter can affect the new mother's ability to control her bowels and the passing of wind and faces, and thus reduce her quality of life.
Diagnosis of severe perineal tears
Accurate diagnosis of severe perineal and anal damage during childbirth is crucial if the new mother is to maintain good bowel control.
All women who have given birth vaginally should undergo a thorough perineal and anal examination following the birth but this is particularly important where the woman is known to be at a higher risk. This would be the case where shoulder dystocia has occurred during the baby's birth.
Medical negligence
If a woman has suffered a severe birth tear which does not receive an accurate diagnosis, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having provided only substandard care.
If the new mother suffers poor bowel control in the long-term as a result, affecting her quality of life, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a medical negligence legal practice. We have supported numerous women in making successful compensation claims for the long-term impact of misdiagnosed birth tears and will be very happy to help you.
Contact us today to speak to one of our team.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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