4th Degree Tear Maternity Care Compensation
Although the roll-out of perineal tear care bundles is showing signs of improving awareness of and care of severe perineal tears, women still continue to suffer as a result of poor-quality medical care following vaginal childbirth.
What is a 4th degree birth tear?
A fourth degree tear is the most severe form of birth tear which can be experienced during vaginal childbirth. Whereas a 1st degree tear only damages the skin of the vagina and possibly the perineum, a 4th degree tear will travel from the vagina, across the perineum and through the anal sphincter - the muscles which control the bowel. This injury will additionally damage the internal lining of the anal canal.
Unsuspected, undiagnosed and unrepaired, a 4th degree tear will damage the woman's ability to control her bowel. This means that she may pass both wind and faeces without being able to prevent it, causing embarrassing and debilitating bowel 'accidents'. Occasionally, an unrepaired 4th degree tear can also cause a fistula or hole to develop between the rectum and the vagina, allowing wind and faeces to pass between the two and to leak uncontrollably from the vagina.
The impact of a 4th degree tear on quality of life
A woman suffering from such appalling symptoms may find that she is severely restricted in the type of employment which she is able to undertake. Working in any sector which requires regular and close contact with the public may become impossible, denying the woman access to employment in the retail, hospitality, law and order, healthcare and educational professions.
The psychological impact can also be severe and this factor alone can limit a woman's capacity to work at all, causing a loss of self-confidence and social isolation.
Medical negligence and 4th degree tears
It is astonishing that such severe damage is sometimes missed by those professionals who should have the knowledge and expertise to recognise and diagnose them. However, this is occasionally the case and here at Glynns we have supported numerous women who continue to suffer the impact of an unrepaired 4th degree tear long after the birth of their baby.
- A failure to carry out a thorough examination of the perineum, including a digital rectal examination of the anus following vaginal childbirth may be regarded as negligent
- Failing to diagnose or misdiagnosing a severe birth tear may be regarded as negligent care.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
If you are struggling with the shocking long-term effects of a fourth degree tear due to poor medical care, contact us today to discuss your experience with a medical negligence solicitor.
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
