Perineal Tears & Medical Malpractice

Your Rights If You Suffered a Perineal Tear in Childbirth

Childbirth is one of the most incredible experiences in the world, but it is also extremely painful. Labor and delivery can cause unimaginable stress and trauma to the body. Healthcare providers, such as obstetricians, are trained to diagnose and treat any problems, such as perineal tears. Failure to provide a reasonable standard of care can result in substantial harm to a patient.

At The Beasley Firm, LLC, we represent individuals who have suffered harm because of medical malpractice. Our attorneys are well-versed in handling even the most challenging cases, including those occurring during labor and delivery. We can help you hold a healthcare provider responsible for their negligence or wrongdoing. 

If you sustained a perineal tear that was not properly fixed after delivery, contact our office at (215) 866-2424 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. 

What Is a Perineal Tear?

During a vaginal delivery, the perineum usually must be stretched to allow for the baby to fit through the opening. In many cases, the stress on the perineum (the area between the vaginal opening and the anus) is often torn. While perineal tears in childbirth are normal, healthcare providers must act quickly to prevent additional problems. 

In many cases, the perineum is stitched or sutured immediately after childbirth. A failure to diagnose and treat a serious perineal tear can result in infection, pain, and other complications. Due to how common perineal tears are, most obstetricians have extensive experience repairing these injuries.

What Is an Episiotomy?

During labor and delivery, a doctor may make the determination that it would be better for the mother and child to cut the vaginal opening. A surgical incision, known as an episiotomy, may be made to prevent excessive tearing. While episiotomies were routinely performed for decades, a new school of thought indicates that it may be preferable to allow the vagina to tear naturally. 

What Kinds of Complications Can Result from a Perineal Tear?

A perineal tear also referred to as a vaginal tear, can result in serious harm if it is not effectively treated. The severity of the harm often depends on the degree of the tear. Perineal tears are classified into four degrees. A first or second-degree tear is often not a cause for concern. Third and fourth-degree tears are much more severe and can affect bowel control as well as other functions.

Complications that may result from a perineal tear include:

• Pain and discomfort while urinating
• Loss of bowel control or incontinence
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Infection and odor

Even if an obstetrician stitched your perineal tear, you can still experience dangerous health conditions if the stitches were not correctly completed. It is imperative to discuss any concerns directly with your healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment often prove critical in a successful recovery. If a doctor, nurse, or other care provider fails to diagnose the tear or adequately repair it, you may have a valid claim for medical malpractice.

Did You Suffer an Improperly Treated Perineal Tear? Contact Our Firm.

Did you experience a perineal tear during labor that was not properly diagnosed or treated? Contact our office at (215) 866-2424 to schedule a free case consultation. All medical malpractice case evaluations are confidential and provided without obligation to retain our firm. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to speak directly with a member of our legal team.