Claiming Compensation for Severe Perineal Trauma in Childbirth
Damage to the perineum during vaginal childbirth is not uncommon and is not necessarily a sign of medical negligence. However, the way in which it is dealt with by medical professionals may well be.
Perineal trauma in childbirth
The term 'perineal trauma' refers to damage caused to a woman's vagina, perineum and, possibly, anal muscles, during vaginal childbirth. For many women this will be a fairly minor injury. For some women, however, there is a risk that the damage or trauma to the perineum will be far more severe with the potential to cause permanent bowel dysfunction.
Understanding of the potential implications of perineal trauma, diagnosis of the injury and a prompt, skilled repair are all key to a good long-term outcome.
Women who are particularly at risk include the following groups:
- Women who are giving birth through the vagina, as opposed to through caesarean section, for the first time.
- Women who are giving birth with the assistance of medical instruments such as forceps or a ventouse
- Women who are of Asian ethnicity
- Women giving birth to a larger than average baby
Severe perineal trauma, in the form of 3rd or 4th degree tears, damages the anal sphincter. This is the muscles which control bowel movement and the passing of wind and faeces. A failure by medical professionals to provide a suitable level of care can leave a woman with long-term incontinence.
Medical care of perineal trauma
The guidelines of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists state that all women who are due to give birth through the vagina should be advised of the risks of perineal trauma and steps to take to minimise the risk.
Furthermore the perineum should be protected during the baby's delivery and, if an instrumental delivery is needed, an episiotomy may need to be carried out.
Women who have given birth through the vagina should also undergo a thorough examination following the baby's birth. The purpose of this is to identify any perineal and anal damage. Without a digital rectal examination damage to the anal sphincter may remain undiagnosed.
Medical negligence and compensation
If medical professionals fail to provide adequate care of severe perineal trauma, leaving a woman to suffer long-term symptoms and financial losses, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law to discuss your situation and the suitability of making 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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