Negligent C-Sections - Injury to Mother During Childbirth

Negligent C-Section Claims

A C-section, or Caesarean Section is the surgical delivery of a baby through incisions made in the abdomen and uterus. This method of delivery is usually only used when normal delivery cannot take place, or in cases of high-risk pregnancies such as when the baby is in the breech position and can’t be re-positioned before labour commences. Other situations where a C-Section might be required include:

• Pelvic Disproportion – where the mother’s pelvis is not wide enough for the baby to get through
• Placenta Praevia – where membrane blocks the uterus and obstructs birth
• Abruption of the Placenta – when the placenta is detached from the uterus wall before birth
• Distress to the foetus – if labour is taking too long for the child’s health

No matter what the reason for a C-Section is, there are always risks associated with performing the surgery. Physical injuries to the child can be a danger, as well as starvation of oxygen during the birth. In some cases, failure on the part of doctors to recognise that a C-section is necessary in time can itself lead to serious complications. As well as these risks come those which are prevalent with any kind of surgery: blood clots, infections or problems with the stitching of wounds can all lead to issues that can have a serious effect upon the mother.

In some cases simple mistakes can lead to life-changing situations. Take for example the 24-year-old woman who underwent a C-section and subsequently suffered severe stomach pains and vomiting. It was four months before a scan revealed that a swab had been left inside her abdomen during the procedure, and that she had developed an intra-abdominal abscess around the swab. The NHS Trust involved admitted liability and a figure of £85,000 was paid in compensation.

If you or someone you care for has suffered as a result of a C-section error, it is quite likely that you will be eligible to make a claim for compensation. Once your own treatment or the treatment of your child is in place, you should contact one of our friendly and highly experienced solicitors. We will listen to your story and help you to decide if making a claim is the best way forward. If needs be we will employ the services of independent medical specialists to provide critical facts and information to support your case. It is free to contact us, and you are under no obligation to continue with a case if you choose not to do so.