A Caesarean section (C-section) is a common surgical procedure used to deliver a baby through incisions made in the mother’s abdomen and womb. While C-sections are often lifesaving for both mother and baby, failures in care before, during, or after the operation can cause serious harm.
This surgical procedure to deliver a baby may be planned (elective) if complications are anticipated (e.g. breech presentation, previous C-section, placenta previa), or it may be an emergency, often performed when the baby or mother shows signs of distress during labour.
The operation involves making an incision in the lower abdomen and uterus, delivering the baby and placenta and closing the incision with stitches. While C-sections are generally safe, they are a major surgery and when not managed correctly, the consequences can be serious.
What Is Medical Negligence in a C-Section?
Medical negligence in a Caesarean section occurs when the care provided falls below the standard expected of a competent healthcare provider, resulting in avoidable harm to the mother, the baby, or both.
Common Types of C-Section Negligence:
- Delays in Performing a C-Section:
In some emergency situations, doctors need to act fast. Any delay in recognising signs of fetal distress, uterine rupture,or failed labour progression can lead to brain injury in the baby or complications for the mother.
- Surgical Mistakes:
During the operation, errors may include:
- Damage to nearby organs like the bladder or bowel
- Inadequate control of bleeding, leading to haemorrhage
- Leaving instruments or sponges inside the body
- Poor wound closure, increasing risk of infection or hernia
- Anaesthetic Negligence:
Spinal or epidural anaesthesia is typically used for C-sections. Errors in administration can result in:
- Inadequate pain relief
- Nerve damage
- Breathing difficulties if the anaesthetic spreads too high
- Post-Operative Failures:
Negligent aftercare may involve
- Failure to monitor for infection or internal bleeding
- Inadequate pain management
- Discharging a patient too early
- Not addressing complications such as wound breakdown or blood clots
Consequences of C-Section Negligence:
The physical and emotional impact of a negligent C-section can be devastating, including.
- Injury to the baby, such as oxygen deprivation, brain damage, or cuts during surgery
- Injury to the mother, including organ damage, excessive bleeding, or sepsis
- Loss of future fertility
- Psychological trauma, including postnatal depression or PTSD
- The need for further surgery to correct errors
In the most tragic cases, maternal or neonatal death may occur.
How to Spot Medical Negligence After a Caesarean Section?
It’s not always easy to know whether something went wrong or whether complications were unavoidable. However, you may have experienced negligence if:
- You or your baby were harmed due to unreasonable delays in performing a C-section
- You experienced severe bleeding, organ damage, or infection that was not properly managed
- Your baby suffered brain injury due to oxygen deprivation
- Your pain or symptoms were ignored before or after surgery
- You were discharged too early, leading to complications
Our team at Tomlin and Partners will assess your situation with care and confidentiality. We work on a no win no fee basis, so you don’t need to worry about the financial risk.
Why Choose Tomlin and Partners?
We take the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and help you claim the compensation and accountability you deserve. Whether you are a mother or a family member acting on behalf of a child, we’re here to help you move forward.