Perineal Tear Negligence Claims

What causes vaginal tearing during childbirth?

There are a few things that can happen during childbirth which result in vaginal tearing, including:

• Large baby size.
• Use of forceps or vacuum extraction during delivery.
• Prolonged or very quick labour.
• The baby’s position during birth.
• First-time vaginal birth.
• An episiotomy (a surgical cut made to avoid tearing) that extends beyond the intended incision.

While not all tears can be avoided, negligent practices during delivery can result in injury that could have been prevented. (NHS)

How common are tears during childbirth?

Vaginal tears are a frequent occurrence during childbirth with around 90% of women experiencing some form of tear. Minor perineal tears typically heal without significant complications, but more severe injuries may require medical treatment and can lead to ongoing health concerns.

Types of vaginal tearing:

Perineal tears are classified into degrees based on their severity. While some heal naturally, others require serious medical attention and surgical intervention.

• 1st-degree perineal tears: involve the skin and sometimes the tissue around the vagina, causing minimal discomfort and often healing on their own without medical intervention.
• 2nd-degree perineal tears: affect the skin and muscles of the perineum. Stitches are often required for healing, which may take a few weeks.
• 3rd-degree perineal tears: extend into the muscle around the anus and may require surgery to repair. These tears can lead to long-term complications like incontinence.
• 4th-degree perineal tears: the most severe, involving deeper muscle layers and sometimes affecting the anal sphincter. These typically require surgical repair and can have lasting effects on bowel control. (RCOG)

How are perineal tears treated?

Treatment for perineal tears varies based on the severity of the injury. Some less serious cases require minimal care or stitches which will take a few weeks to heal. More serious cases, such as 3rd and 4th degree tears, typically require surgical repair and a longer recovery period with potential long-term issues, such as bowel or bladder problems, if not properly addressed.

Prompt and correct treatment is essential to prevent complications. (NHS)

How often is stitching needed?

Stitching is required for most 2nd-degree tears and more severe injuries (3rd and 4th-degree). For minor 1st-degree tears, stitches may not be necessary, but some women may still require them depending on the extent of the injury. (RCOG)

What complications could occur after a perineal tear?

Improper treatment of a perineal tear can result in several complications, including:

• Chronic pain in the perineum or genital area.
• Urinary or fecal incontinence.
• Pain during intercourse.
• Pelvic organ prolapse.
• Infection.
• Psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Long-term complications can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life and may require ongoing treatment and support. (NHS)

What reasons are there for making a perineal tear claim?

You may be eligible to claim compensation if your perineal tear was caused by negligent treatment during childbirth, such as: 

• You were not properly informed about the risks of perineal tearing.
• The tear was caused by negligence during delivery.
• The tear was not treated promptly or correctly.
• Post-birth complications were missed or mismanaged.
• Medical staff failed to adequately monitor you during or after delivery.

To determine if you have a case, it’s important to speak with an expert solicitor who can assess the circumstances of your delivery.