Unrepaired Anal Birth Injury in New Mothers
If a new mother experiences long-term bowel problems due to an unrepaired birth injury, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Anal injuries in new mothers
Women who are giving birth vaginally for the first time are at a greater than average risk of suffering a severe birth tear. A severe birth tear is one classified according to the guidelines of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists as either a 3rd or 4th degree tear.
A 3rd degree tear cuts across the perineum from the vagina and damages the external anal sphincter muscle. In the case of a 3c tear, it will additionally damage the internal anal sphincter. The anal sphincter muscles work in conjunction to allow and prevent the passing of wind and faeces.
A 4th degree tear will also damage the lining of the anal canal and, without repair, puts the woman at risk of developing a fistula. This is a hole between the rectum and the vagina which will allow wind and faeces to leak through from the bowel to the vagina and cause abnormal leakage.
The impact of severe birth tears
Either scenario can cause significant physical and psychological problems for a new mother who is, at the same time, trying to support and nurture her new-born child.
It can leave a woman restricted in the type of work she can undertake or the hours she is able to work and can severely damage her income as a result. This can mean that, in addition to struggling with severe physical and emotional difficulties, the new mother can also be facing significant financial problems.
Negligence and compensation
When this shocking situation is the product of poor-quality medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Medical professionals attendant at a vaginal birth are expected to examine a new mother thoroughly for any signs of perineal and anal damage. A failure to do so may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
A successful compensation claim will take into account any financial losses experienced by the new mother as a result of the substandard care. If the woman has suffered a significant loss of income, for example, or is facing additional costs caused by her bowel problems, a claim will, where appropriate, incorporate these losses.
Speak to a specialist
If you are suffering bowel difficulties due to an undiagnosed and unrepaired birth tear. Contact Glynns Solicitors today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Contact us today to talk to a specialist 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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