Struggling With a Stoma After Negligent Vaginal Childbirth
It may seem astonishing that vaginal childbirth can leave a new mother struggling with a stoma to provide her with bowel function but such is the case for a small minority of women. If such a distressing and disabling situation has been caused by negligent maternity care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Severe birth tears and negligent maternity care
Giving birth through the vagina puts a woman at risk of suffering a birth tear. Some women, such as those undergoing an instrumental delivery or first-time mothers, are at a greater risk of a severe tear. These appalling injuries, also referred to as 3rd and 4th degree tears, cause damage to the muscles around the anus and affect control of the passing of wind and faeces.
A 4th degree tear, which additionally damages the lining of the anal canal, can lead to the development of a fistula, compromising bowel function. The new mother may need to have a stoma fitted, either temporarily or permanently, to facilitate bowel function.
A failure by medical professionals to diagnose a 4th degree tear following a vaginal delivery may be regarded as negligent. A failure to diagnose will mean there is no repair and the new mother will start to suffer shocking bowel symptoms.
Struggling with a stoma
Coming to terms with life with a stoma can cause significant practical, psychological and financial difficulties.
For a new mother who had been intending to return to work, her plans may be completely overturned. Not only may she need to have easy access to a toilet wherever she works, but she may find that her previous work is now unsuitable with her bowel problems. She may suffer a significant long-term loss of income.
The practicalities of living with a stoma may necessitate specialist equipment and treatment.
The psychological impact can also be devastating.
Making a claim
If you or a loved one are struggling with a stoma following substandard maternity care, it may be possible to claim compensation.
A failure to carry out a digital rectal examination of the new mother following the birth of her baby may be regarded as negligent. A misdiagnosis of a severe tear may also be regarded as negligent. If the new mother has suffered a severe tear and experiences permanent life-changing symptoms as a result, it may be possible to make a claim.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors specialises in medical negligence including severe maternal birth injuries. With many years' experience of pursuing these claims, we can offer a wealth of expertise and understanding.
We can offer No Win No Fee medical negligence funding which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
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
