Sally-Jean Nicholes, a partner in the clinical negligence department at specialist personal injury law firm Leigh Day & Co has just concluded a claim for another client who suffered a severe perineal tear during delivery of a baby.  The injury was misdiagnosed and the wrong treatment was given.

Perineal tears can vary in severity and are classified as first, second, third and fourth degree tears.  In the most severe cases the tear extends into the anal canal and to the rectum, there may be a hole in the wall between the rectum and the vagina – a recto-vaginal fistula – that allows faecal material to pass through the vagina.  Infection is a common and serious complication which may make the injury worse.

It is important that any perineal tear is examined carefully as soon as possible after delivery by whoever delivered the baby.  If appropriate a senior obstetrician should be called to ensure that an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan is made and carried out straight away.  The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has produced clear guidance on the management of third- and fourth-degree perineal tears.

Symptoms following perineal tears can include severe pain, incontinence, and painful sexual intercourse. Psychological symptoms often develop such as depression, low self-esteem, social isolation, and psychosexual problems.  Some women are reluctant to report that they are suffering from symptoms, assuming that it is part of the normal process of giving birth, or they are simply too embarrassed by their symptoms.  Injury of this nature can destroy what should be a happy and fulfilling time for parents. 

Perineal tears may occur quite naturally, as a consequence of childbirth, not all tears (or treatment for them) will result in a claim.  If you would like to speak to someone about a possible claim please contact Sally Jean Nicholes on 020 7650 1200 for a free initial consultation.