Maternity care

We have successfully represented numerous clients who have experienced various types of negligence during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.

We understand that proper maternity care goes beyond physical safety and extends to the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals and their families. Our comprehensive approach ensures that we address all aspects of the harm caused by negligence.

Recent news of another maternity unit being investigated for substandard care in the UK can undoubtedly be unsettling for expecting mothers. At Leigh Day, our team of experts understands the fear and concern that these scandals can evoke. That's why we are here to provide you with the necessary advice and guidance to empower those affected by such incidents.

What negligence may you be exposed to whilst pregnant?

During pregnancy, women may unfortunately experience various forms of negligence that can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby.

This negligence can manifest in different ways, including misdiagnosis or failure to diagnose pregnancy complications or conditions. Inadequate prenatal care, such as insufficient monitoring or failure to address concerns, can also be a form of negligence. Medication errors, either in prescribing or administering medications, can pose significant risks. Errors during labor and delivery, such as delayed response to complications or failure to perform necessary interventions, can lead to birth injuries.

Additionally, postpartum care negligence can result in complications going unnoticed or untreated. It is essential that healthcare providers prioritise attentive care, proper diagnosis, and timely interventions to ensure the health and wellbeing of expectant mothers and their babies.

When should you seek legal advice?

Pregnant individuals should consider seeking legal advice when they believe they have experienced negligence or substandard care during their pregnancy, such as the examples above. 

UK Maternity care enquiry timeline

The UK has unfortunately witnessed several maternity scandals in recent years, raising concerns about the quality and safety of maternity care. Leigh Day recognises the significance of addressing these issues and ensuring that expectant mothers are well-informed about their rights and options.

- 2015: An investigation into the Morecambe Bay maternity unit begins after the deaths of multiple babies and mothers. It uncovers a catalogue of errors, substandard care, and a lack of accountability.

- 2017: The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust launches an investigation into maternity services following concerns about the high number of baby deaths and cases of avoidable harm. The inquiry is ongoing, with evidence of systemic failings and a failure to learn from previous cases emerging.

- 2019: The Independent Maternity Review for East Kent Hospitals is commissioned after several avoidable baby deaths at the trust. The review exposes multiple failings in maternity care, including poor management, staff shortages, and inadequate risk assessment.

- 2021: The Independent Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Review, chaired by Baroness Cumberlege, is published. It highlights the harm caused by the hormone-based pregnancy test Primodos, the anti-epileptic drug sodium valproate, and pelvic mesh implants. The review criticizes the healthcare system for disregarding patient concerns and warns about the need for fundamental changes in patient safety.

- Ongoing: The Independent Review into Maternity Services at the Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust is launched in 2020 after concerns about poor care and unnecessary baby deaths. The review is still underway, aiming to identify the lessons to be learned and improve maternity care standards.

These incidents, investigations, and inquiries demonstrate the urgent need to address systemic issues within the UK's maternity services and ensure that all expectant mothers receive safe, compassionate, and high-quality care.