Vaginal Fistula and Maternity Negligence Compensation
The appalling symptoms of a rectovaginal fistula may justify a claim for compensation if negligent maternity care has contributed to the woman's poor long term outcome.
Vaginal childbirth and a rectovaginal fistula
An occasional and highly-distressing outcome of vaginal childbirth is a rectovaginal fistula. This is an abnormal passage between the anus and the vagina which can occur if the new mother suffers a 4th degree tear during the birth of her baby.
Especially where an instrumental delivery has been necessary or where the woman is giving birth for the first time, a tear can develop from the vagina, across the perineum and through the anal sphincter muscles into the anal canal. This severe injury requires accurate and precise diagnosis followed by an effective and comprehensive repair in an operating theatre. Without such meticulous and crucial medical attention, a shocking injury and debilitating symptoms can utterly change a woman's life.
Unfortunately, such a fistula can allow wind and faecal matter to move into the vagina and cause the woman to suffer embarrassing leakage. Where a 4th degree tear has occurred, and if bowel function has been compromised, the woman may need to have a stoma fitted to provide bowel function.
Negligent maternity care
As stated above, the appalling nature of the symptoms associated with a rectovaginal fistula means that competent maternity care of the new mother and her perineal health is essential. Medical failings such as the following may justify a claim for compensation if they have led to on-going and unnecessary symptoms:
- A failure to carry out a perineal examination following the birth of the baby
- A failure to carry out a digital rectal examination of the new mother to assess the condition of her anal sphincter
- A failure to diagnose an anal sphincter injury
- A misdiagnosis of an anal sphincter injury
- A failure to carry out a comprehensive and effective repair
Claiming compensation
The shocking symptoms caused by a fistula can severely restrict a woman's quality of life and may limit her ability to work. It may mean that she requires specific treatment or hygiene equipment in order to be able to cope.
Where the woman's condition has been caused by negligent maternity care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation which would address the financial implication of this situation.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, speak to women who have suffered from maternity negligence on a regular basis and have supported numerous women in making highly successful claims.
Contact us to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, if you think that you may be in a position to make a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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