Compensation Secured After A High-Risk Pregnancy Ends in Trauma

The Incident 

Our client was pregnant with monochorionic, diamniotic twins, classifying her pregnancy as high-risk. Despite this, the pregnancy progressed uneventfully, and she was admitted for induction of labour at 36 weeks. 

She reached full cervical dilation after an artificial rupture of membranes, a Syntocinon infusion, and an epidural. Two days later, she delivered the first twin without complications. However, there was immediate concern for the second twin. With a pathological CTG, high foetal head, and cord presentation (ruptured membranes), she was rushed to theatre. 

In theatre, a vaginal examination confirmed the concerning findings, and a Grade 1 caesarean section under general anaesthetic was performed. The second twin was delivered, and the procedure concluded successfully. 

Following surgery, our client was moved to recovery and later to the postnatal ward. However, within hours, she experienced discomfort and oozing from the wound. A pressure dressing was applied, and she was monitored. The following day, serous fluid was noted leaking from the wound. Despite a swab being taken, no antibiotics were prescribed as no infection signs were reported at the time. 

Two days later, she was discharged into the care of community midwives. 

A Devastating Turn of Events 

 Two days after discharge, she was rushed to the hospital via ambulance. The ambulance report read: 

 “Patient reports bowels outside abdomen… leaned down, felt something fall out, intestines visible…” 

In the hospital, tests revealed elevated CRP levels (indicating infection), and swabs confirmed infection. She was prepared for emergency surgery to repair her abdominal wall and received IV antibiotics. 

Over the following days, her CRP levels rose significantly, peaking at 216. After continued treatment, she was discharged but faced an uphill battle toward recovery.

The Impact on Our Client

This traumatic experience caused profound physical and emotional harm. 

• Physical Impact: 

• Ongoing bowel issues. 

• Anxiety about her stomach reopening. 

• Flinching when her stomach is touched, triggering daily reminders of the incident. 

• Mental Health Effects: 

• Severe depression and anxiety. 

• Nightmares, flashbacks, and night sweats. 

• Difficulty engaging in social activities and parenting responsibilities.

Despite seeking help from a clinical psychologist, the sessions felt overwhelming, leaving her to struggle alone. Her GP prescribed sertraline, which has improved her ability to sleep and reduced her night sweats. 

• Impact on Family Life:  

• The incident shattered the joyful experience of childbirth for her and her partner. 

• It also eliminated any hopes of expanding their family in the future.

Her mother-in-law stepped in, taking time off work to care for the family, helping with the newborn twins and older children. This ongoing support has been essential but emotionally taxing on her family.

The Case

Feeling let down by her care, our client approached Fletchers Solicitors for legal support. Expert Solicitor Priya Singh took on her case. 

The case was litigated and took years to resolve. Just one month before trial, the defending party made a litigation risk offer of £25,000. This offer was accepted as our client wanted closure after years of legal proceedings.

The Outcome

Priya Singh’s dedication resulted in a £25,000 settlement for our client. While no amount can undo the trauma, this outcome provides some compensation for the negligence she endured.