More than 500 babies die every year because hospitals are ignoring guidelines relating to the birth of twins and triplets.
A study conducted by the charity Twins & Multiple Births Association (Tamba) reveals that ‘multiples’ make up 3% of births in the UK each year.
Shockingly, they account for 7.4% of stillbirths, 18.4% of neonatal deaths and have more than six times the risk of suffering cerebral palsy.
Hospitals ignoring guidelines
The National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) issued guidelines in 2011 in an attempt to reduce the risks associated with a multiples birth.
These recommend various measures including the presence of an obstetrician during the delivery in case of an emergency.
In their study, Tamba suggests that less than one in five maternity wards has implemented the guidelines.
Consequently problems are arising, such as premature labour not being identified and oxygen deprivation during delivery.
Hospitals putting “lives at risk”
Sadly these failings are leading to unnecessary deaths or severe disability, as well as a significant number of medical negligence claims.
One in 10 maternity cases handled by the NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) relates to a multiple birth, with £93million in compensation being paid to families between 2005 and 2010.
Keith Reed, chief executive of Tamba, said: “Too many units are putting twins, triplets and higher multiples’ lives at risk by failing to follow the latest clinical guidance.”
“By embedding best practice, units can begin to reduce the number of families who suffer the terrible heartbreak of losing one or more of their babies.”
Can you make a claim?
If poor obstetric or midwifery care has caused you or your baby harm, please get in touch with us today to discuss your options.
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