What Is a Rectovaginal Fistula After Childbirth?
If you have been diagnosed with a rectovaginal fistula following childbirth, it may be that you had an undiagnosed 4th degree tear. If so, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the long-term impact.
What is a rectovaginal fistula?
A fistula is a hole or passage between two parts of the anatomy which would not normally be present. In the case of a rectovaginal fistula, it is a passage between the rectum at the end of the bowel and the vagina.
The problem with this abnormality, as is probably obvious, is that it can allow faecal or bacterial matter and wind which is normally contained within the bowel to travel into the vagina. It can then leak from the vagina instead of the anus without control.
The result of this is not only distressing and embarrassing but can cause significant practical and hygiene issues which can affect many aspects of a woman's life.
What causes a rectovaginal fistula?
A rectovaginal fistula can develop if a woman suffers a 4th degree tear during vaginal childbirth. A 4th degree tear causes damage from the vagina, across the perineum, through the anal sphincter muscles and into the bowel. It causes damage to the lining of the anal canal which can lead to a hole in the bowel.
Is it negligent?
A 4th degree tear is not necessarily a product of medical negligence. It is a risk of vaginal childbirth which a small minority of women suffer. First-time mothers and women who have had an instrumental delivery are at a higher risk of this debilitating injury.
However, if medical professionals do not provide appropriate care of a 4th degree tear they may indeed be regarded as having been negligent. Due to the risk of a severe 3rd or 4th degree during vaginal childbirth, it is essential that women undergo a thorough examination following the birth of their baby.
This should facilitate the accurate diagnosis of all degrees of perineal and anal damage and ensure that any damage is correctly and accurately repaired. Third and fourth degree tears need to be repaired by a surgeon in an operating theatre and, if this does not take place, the new mother can suffer appalling symptoms for the rest of her life.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of a rectovaginal fistula due to substandard medical care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
This would take account of any financial losses caused by the effects of the negligence such as a loss of income where the woman has either had to change her career or limit her working hours due to her bowel symptoms.
Speak to a negligence compensation specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for negligent maternity care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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