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Post-Natal Incontinence Disorders and Medical Negligence

Post-Natal Incontinence Disorders and Medical Negligence

Long-term bowel problems following the birth of a baby may be a sign of negligent maternity care and may justify a claim for compensation.

Symptoms of an undiagnosed or unrepaired birth tear

Temporary bowel and bladder issues following childbirth may be expected but severe dysfunction is likely to be a sign of an unresolved on-going problem.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms following a vaginal birth, you may have an unrepaired severe birth tear affecting the function of your anal muscles:

  • Extreme urgency when needing to go to the toilet
  • Difficulty preventing the passing of wind
  • Difficulty preventing the passing of faeces
  • Infections of the perineum
  • Discomfort around the perineal area

Occasionally a birth tear is repaired but the quality of the repair is such that the wound breaks down and the woman starts to experience bowel problems again. This may be regarded as substandard care.

Maternal vaginal birth tears

Most women tear during vaginal childbirth. Some women suffer a severe tear. Severe tears are also called third or fourth degree tears. They cause damage to the anal sphincter, the muscles which control bowel movements and the passing of wind and faeces. First-time mothers are particularly at risk.

It is important that a medical professional examines your perineum and anus after you have given birth to check whether you have suffered a tear. If so, it is vital that the extent of the tear is diagnosed and recorded precisely.

If a part of the tear is missed, it will probably not be repaired.

This is what can cause a woman to suffer permanent, distressing and life-changing bowel problems.

Negligence and compensation

If you have suffered a 3rd or 4th degree tear which has not been diagnosed by medical professionals, you have been the victim of substandard care.

If you are now facing significant difficulties as a result of your unrepaired tear, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.

If you are struggling to work or are facing additional financial problems because of your symptoms, a compensation claim would take those financial difficulties into account and provide recompense.

Speak to a specialist solicitor

Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers. Over the years, we have supported numerous women in making claims for poor-quality medical care of a maternal birth injury.

Contact us today to speak to a specialist solicitor about your situation and the suitability of making a claim for compensation.

Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.

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