What are the long-term effects of a pelvic fracture?

For every birth. For every baby. For every family. 

Pelvic fractures occur when one or more pelvic bones break, which can happen for various reasons, including during childbirth. In cases of birth injury negligence, where medical errors cause pelvic fractures, affected individuals may be entitled to compensation. The article covers:

• Symptoms of pelvic fractures
• Treatment options and recovery
• Long-term effects of pelvic injuries
• How to pursue compensation for birth injuries caused by medical negligence

Pelvic injuries during birth can be life- changing. Often caused by large babies or assisted delivery (forceps/vacuum), they can cause severe pain and result in incontinence or difficulty walking. Common types of pelvic injury at birth include:

• Pelvic floor muscle injuries
• Perineal tears
• Pelvic bone fractures

More than 300,000 women to have surgery annually due to pelvic floor disorders or injuries. This equates to around one in every 10 women who give birth vaginally every year.

How are pelvic fractures caused during birth?

Although they are rare, pelvic fractures during birth can happen due to several factors. The forces exerted during labour and delivery, combined with the baby’s size or position in the birth canal, can place extra pressure on the mother’s pelvic bones, potentially causing fractures. Additionally, medical interventions such as forceps, when used improperly or with excessive force, can also contribute to pelvic fractures. These fractures may result from the intense pressure exerted on the pelvic region during delivery, causing the bones to crack or break. Moreover, inadequate medical care or negligence during childbirth, such as delayed caesarean section or improper handling of complications, can further increase the risk of pelvic fractures. Overall, pelvic fractures during birth are often the result of a combination of factors involving the mother’s pelvic anatomy, the baby’s position, and the medical care provided during labour and delivery.

What are the symptoms of a pelvic fracture?

Symptoms of a pelvic fracture can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Common signs include:

• Significant pain in the pelvic area, especially during movement or weight-bearing activities
• Difficulty walking or standing due to the pain and instability caused by the fracture
• Swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the pelvic region
• Asymmetry in the pelvic area, indicating a more pronounced fracture
• Pain or difficulty with urination or bowel movements
• Potential nerve damage that can lead to numbness or weakness in the lower limbs

It’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly if any of these symptoms are present, as pelvic fractures can have serious implications for mobility and overall health.

Pelvic fracture treatments

Pelvic fractures are typically treated through a combination of approaches tailored to the severity of the injury and the individual’s specific circumstances. According to Clevland Clinic, in less severe cases where the bones are stable and aligned, conservative management may involve rest, pain medication, and walking aids to support healing and restore mobility. However, for more complex or unstable fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical procedures can include internal fixation, where screws, plates, or rods are used to stabilise the fractured bones, or external fixation, where pins or screws are inserted into the pelvis and connected to an external frame to maintain alignment. Additionally, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the treatment process, helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and function through targeted exercises and therapies. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the extent of the fracture, associated injuries, and the patient’s overall health and lifestyle. Close monitoring by healthcare professionals is essential to ensure optimal recovery and minimise long-term complications.

How do pelvic fractures affect you long-term?

The long-term effects of a pelvic fracture can cause long-term complications for individuals, and may pose challenges for future pregnancies. Beyond immediate recovery, life after a pelvic fracture can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and impaired quality of life. In the context of childbirth, pelvic fractures can exacerbate postpartum difficulties, hindering maternal care and impeding the ability to perform daily activities, including caring for the newborn.

Furthermore, pelvic instability resulting from a fracture may complicate subsequent pregnancies, potentially increasing the risk of complications such as pelvic girdle pain, pelvic organ prolapse, or even difficulties in labour and delivery. Moreover, psychological distress stemming from the trauma of the fracture and its lasting effects can further impact maternal well-being and family dynamics. Addressing these long-term consequences requires comprehensive medical management, including ongoing monitoring, rehabilitative therapy, and tailored support to optimise physical and emotional recovery, as well as to facilitate future pregnancies and maternal health.

Natural births after pelvic fracture are generally considered safe if they are healed however these kinds of injuries to typically increase the risk of requiring a caesarean section. When making the decision to have a vaginal birth or a C-section birth following a pelvic fracture, you should always consider the severity of the original injury and seek advice from your medical professionals that is specific to your circumstances.

Can I claim for a pelvic fracture caused during birth?

In cases of negligence resulting in pelvic fracture, you may have legal grounds to a pursue medical negligence claim. Our experts specialise in birth injury and can assess specific circumstances and whether you have a claim. If you think you might have a claim, contact us today.

It is important to note that a claim should be made within three years of the negligence occurring or from when you first became aware of the injury.

In conclusion, understanding the complexities of pelvic fractures and their implications, particularly in the context of childbirth. This article has shed light on the causes, symptoms, treatments, and long-term effects of pelvic fractures, emphasising the potential consequences for mothers following birth injury negligence. By recognising the physical, emotional, and practical challenges associated with pelvic fractures, individuals can better advocate for their healthcare needs and seek appropriate support. Moreover, the discussion on seeking compensation for pelvic fractures resulting from medical negligence underscores the importance of accountability and justice in healthcare delivery.

Why Choose Fletchers?

At Fletchers, our commitment to securing the best possible outcome for each birth injury claim is unwavering. With a team of dedicated legal professionals experienced in handling complex medical negligence cases, we prioritise the well-being and rights of our clients. We understand the profound impact that birth injuries, including pelvic fractures, can have on individuals and their families, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. By leveraging our expertise, resources, and advocacy skills, we strive to achieve justice and compensation that reflect the full extent of our clients’ losses and ensure they receive the support they need to move forward with confidence.