Medical Negligence Experts Representing Patients Who Suffered Perineal Tears

An internal audit conducted at Pinderfields Hospital has found that more than 50 women who suffered maternal injuries weren’t given appropriate follow-up treatment.

The report found that 52 women who had experienced third or fourth degree perineal tears during childbirth between January 2020 and December 2022 hadn’t been referred for post-natal urogynaecology and physiotherapy follow up, which should be standard practice. This means that 15 per cent of patients who required a referral, did not receive one.

The audit was obtained as part of ongoing investigations into one patient’s care in 2021.

Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust, which runs Pinderfields Hospital, has apologised. The Trust added it was committed to providing the best possible care and to making improvements.

Lawyers representing women affected by perineal tears and other birth injuries

Specialist medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell represent women affected by perineal tears and other injuries suffered during birth, including at Pinderfields Hospital.

Expert Opinion

“As medical negligence solicitors we regularly represent patients who have suffered maternal injuries that haven’t been treated, managed or followed up appropriately. We’re representing patients who suffered a perineal tear and who were treated at Pinderfields Hospital during the period identified in the report.

“Delays in diagnosing and treating maternal injuries can have a devastating impact on mothers during the early period of motherhood, for many years to come and potentially the rest of their lives.

“It’s vital that injured mothers receive the appropriate treatment quickly as delays in treating such injuries can result in avoidable pain and discomfort and have a life-changing impact.

“As well as the physical impacts, such injuries can also have devastating psychological consequences which are often not appreciated.” Victoria Harris 

Vital those affected by audit receive the support they may require

Expert Opinion

“While we welcome the Trust’s pledge to make improvements, it remains of concern that such a large proportion of patients who have suffered these injuries haven’t received the appropriate level of care.

“It’s important that Mid Yorkshire Teaching NHS Trust takes action to ensure that future patients get the care they need.

“Understandably those affected by this audit are likely to have questions. It’s now vital that they receive the support they require to not only be provided with the answers they deserve, but where appropriate ongoing treatment and care for their injuries.” Courteney Coe

Find out more about our expertise in supporting women affected by birth injuries at our dedicated birth injuries section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.

Geeta Nayar, one of our medical negligence lawyers, reveals the life-changing impact a severe perineal tear she suffered during childbirth has had and how she now helps other women access the specialist support they require.