£32K Secured For Client Epidural Complications During Labour

The incident 

This claim involves the treatment our client received during labour. 

When our client opted for an epidural, complications arose due to positioning issues. An anaesthetist made multiple attempts—estimated at up to 19—to insert the epidural, all of which were unsuccessful. After seeking a second opinion, additional attempts were made. It was only after our client’s position was adjusted that the epidural was successfully administered. 

While our client was informed that a headache might occur as a side effect, no further guidance was provided. Following childbirth, she experienced headaches and neck pain, which worsened after being discharged. She also developed blurred vision and had to return to the hospital, where she was diagnosed with a post-dural puncture headache and postnatal cortical vein thrombosis. To treat these conditions, she was prescribed warfarin and blood-thinning injections. 

Following her discharge, our client continued warfarin treatment and attended regular check-ups at the warfarin and neurology clinics. In the meantime, our client was given a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Injuries and impact on our client’s life 

The incident led to a range of physical and psychological injuries, including: 

• Post-dural puncture headache 

• Cortical vein thrombosis 

• Avoidable anticoagulation treatment 

• Side effects from warfarin, such as nosebleeds  

• Persistent headaches and back pain 

• PTSD 

• Anxiety  

These injuries significantly impacted her life, causing both emotional and physical distress. Our client reported that she: 

• Avoided social situations and withdrew from friends and family, including her partner 

• Struggled to bond with her newborn son and has limited memories of his first two weeks 

• Feels unable to have more children due to the trauma she experienced 

• Became overprotective of her son, fearing for his safety 

• Experienced strain in her relationship with her partner 

The emotional toll of these events continues to affect her daily life, leaving her seeking closure and validation that what happened was not her fault.

The case 

Following the incident, our client approached Fletchers Solicitors to pursue a birth injury claim. Clinical Negligence Solicitor Kathryn Stitt handled the case, supporting the client through every stage of the legal process. 

In their letter of response, the defendant admitted liability but challenged the extent of our client’s ongoing back pain and psychological injury. At this stage, the defendant made an initial Part 36 offer of £12,000.00.

The outcome 

After obtaining psychological expert evidence and engaging in further negotiations, the defendant increased their offer by £20,000.00. The claim settled at £32,000.00 on a Part 36 basis. 

For our client, the admission of liability and acknowledgment of wrongdoing was the most important outcome. The compensation she received will help her: 

• Plan a family holiday to create positive memories 

• Access further psychological treatment to aid her recovery

Reflections 

Following the settlement, our client expressed her gratitude, stating: 

“Thank you for everything. I can’t tell you how much closure and relief this will bring me to just know I was not at fault for what happened to me and my family.” 

Have you suffered due to negligent medical care during childbirth?
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