Siobhán Ryan of Cian O’Carroll Solicitors has recently resolved a particularly serious medical negligence case arising from failures in postnatal care following childbirth at a regional maternity hospital. The case resolved by way of a very substantial settlement after mediation, without the need for a trial.
Our client had an uncomplicated pregnancy and was admitted to hospital in early labour at term. During delivery, she sustained a severe perineal tear. This is an injury that occurs between the vagina and the anus and, in serious cases, can extend into the muscles that control bowel function. These muscles must be carefully identified and properly repaired at the time of delivery to avoid long term harm.
Following the birth, the tear was surgically repaired and a vaginal pack was inserted. Intravenous antibiotics were given at that stage. However, the vaginal pack was left in place for far longer than was safe and no appropriate course of oral antibiotics was prescribed afterwards. This significantly increased the risk of infection.
Our client was discharged home but returned to hospital several days later feeling unwell and showing clear signs of infection. Her observations were abnormal and blood tests showed raised lactate levels, a recognised marker of sepsis. Despite these warning signs, the seriousness of her condition was not recognised and her care was not escalated appropriately.
Her condition deteriorated rapidly and she developed septic shock. She required emergency transfer to a Dublin hospital, where life-saving surgery was performed. This included a total abdominal hysterectomy. She spent several days on a ventilator in intensive care and remained in hospital for a prolonged period.
Independent expert evidence confirmed multiple failures in her care. These included failures in post-natal monitoring, infection prevention, timely recognition and escalation of sepsis, and the overall management of her obstetric injuries. Further expert opinion also confirmed that a sphincter injury sustained during delivery had not been adequately identified or repaired, resulting in ongoing bowel dysfunction.
This case illustrates the very real risks that can arise when postnatal care falls below an acceptable standard. It highlights continuing and serious failings in maternity and postnatal services, particularly in the identification and management of birth injuries and postnatal infection. Despite national guidelines and repeated reviews, preventable errors continue to occur.
When these failures happen, the consequences for women can be catastrophic and life changing. This case underlines the urgent need for sustained and meaningful improvement and reform in Irish maternity care to ensure that women are properly protected during childbirth and in the critical days that follow