Failure to recognise an ectopic pregnancy
As recently reported in The Guardian, women are suffering ‘severe harm’ because of failure to recognise an ectopic pregnancy. In some instances this has resulted in death.
What is an ectopic pregnancy?
According to the NHS, an ectopic pregnancy arises when a fertilised egg implants itself outside of the womb, usually in the fallopian tubes.
Unfortunately, ectopic pregnancies cannot be saved and they are usually concluded using medication or an operation.
Signs and Symptoms
Ectopic pregnancies are usually identified by a routine ultrasound scan. Where symptoms develop they usually do so between the 4th and 12th week of pregnancy and are often a combination of:
- A missed period;
- Tummy pain;
- Vaginal bleeding;
- Pain in the tip of your shoulder; and
- Discomfort when going to the toilet.
While these symptoms can be an indication of other conditions, best medical advice is to get it investigated right away.
In the most urgent and acute situations, symptoms can include:
- a sharp, sudden and intense pain in your tummy;
- feeling very dizzy or fainting;
- feeling sick; and
- looking very pale.
Can I claim compensation for negligence?
An ectopic pregnancy is a natural occurrence and is not anyone’s fault. But while nothing can change the fact that you or your loved one has suffered an ectopic pregnancy, early diagnosis and correct treatment are essential in order to prevent injury.
Claims for compensation can arise in the following circumstances:
- where there has been misdiagnosis;
- where there has been a failure to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy;
- where there has been a delay in diagnosis; and
- where there has been a misinterpretation of test results leading to the wrong diagnosis.
You can read here about one successful ectopic pregnancy claim that we recently made.
Making a missed ectopic pregnancy compensation claim
If you have suffered an ectopic pregnancy and have concerns about the standard of treatment you received, then please do not hesitate to contact a member of our specialist team. We will listen to you with compassion and understanding and will be able to apply our extensive knowledge to guide you on making a compensation claim on a No Win, No Fee basis.
Call us on freephone 0333 888 0412 or email brief details of your case to us in complete confidence at [email protected]