Episiotomy Negligence Claims
If you have undergone an episiotomy during labour and believe it was performed negligently, you may be in a position to make a compensation claim.
The team at JMW is highly experienced in claims of this type and we can give you the best chance of securing compensation to help you move on from your ordeal. We can guide you through the claims process, supporting you every step of the way so that you can claim the compensation you are owed while focusing on your recovery.
Get in touch with us today to find out more about making an episiotomy negligence claim. Call us on 0345 872 6666 or allow us to contact you by completing our online enquiry form. We can handle cases on a no win, no fee basis.
What Our Clients Say
How JMW Can Help
Our medical negligence solicitors have a long track record of claiming compensation for those who have had their quality of life affected by the mistakes during labour. We have many years of experience in representing mothers who have suffered as a result of medical negligence.
We handle cases of this kind sensitively and sympathetically, while ensuring we achieve the results that our clients want. We will provide all the guidance you need throughout what can seem like a complex process.
JMW’s clinical negligence team is renowned throughout the country and is headed by leading solicitor Eddie Jones. The team includes members of both the Law Society’s specialist panel of clinical negligence solicitors and the Action against Medical Accidents (AvMA) solicitor panel.
Making a Claim for Episiotomy Negligence
An episiotomy should always be performed with due care and attention, but if the medical professional does not provide an acceptable standard of care, they may be deemed to have acted negligently. There are a number of reasons as to why this might happen, including:
- Internal damage caused by the incision
- A blunt instrument was used instead of a sharp instrument
- The cut was made straight downwards instead of a small, diagonal cut
- The procedure was not required
Following the procedure all damage caused by the episiotomy must be identified and repaired immediately, usually using dissolvable stitches. However, it is not uncommon for this repair work to be carried out incorrectly. This can result in serious consequences for the patient, including sexual dysfunction and pain.
FAQs
- What is an episiotomy?
An episiotomy is a surgical procedure carried out during labour to assist with the delivery of a baby. It is a surgical incision through the perineum to enlarge the vagina. The cut is then closed, usually with dissolving stitches, and should heal within one month. Like most surgical procedures, certain risks are involved. However these dangers are higher if the operation is performed incorrectly or inadequately.
The obstetrician or midwife will carry out this procedure if they believe that mother is at risk of a vaginal tear, which can be more difficult to repair and can also cause damage to the anal sphincter. Your doctor or midwife may also recommend the procedure if he or she believes the baby needs to be delivered quickly in order to reduce imminent risk to their health.
- What problems can occur during an episiotomy?
Complications can and do unfortunately occur during episiotomies. Problems that could potentially be encountered include:
- Postoperative pain
- Severe bruising
- The tear being too long and damaging the anal sphincter
- Incontinence
Talk to Us
To discuss your options and find out more about what will happen next, contact our team on 0345 872 6666, or allow us to give you a call back by completing our online enquiry form.
