Symptoms of Nerve Damage after C Section

By Jason Brady

Mother and baby holding hands

C-sections are vital surgical procedures, sometimes necessary for the safe delivery of babies, however, they cannot be conducted without potential risks for complications.

These can include nerve damage, impacting a woman’s physical and emotional well-being.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, and legal aspects of nerve damage after a C-section is crucial for informed decision-making and seeking support if needed.

What can cause nerve damage during a C-section?

  • Incision location: The Pfannenstiel incision, commonly used in C-sections, lies near several small nerves supplying sensation to the lower abdomen and groin. Accidental cuts or stretching during surgery can compromise these nerves.
  • Blood vessel damage: Disrupting blood supply to nerves can starve them of nutrients and impede healing, leading to long-term problems.
  • Forceps use: Applying excessive force with forceps during delivery can compress or sever nerves, particularly those around the bladder and vagina.
  • Scar tissue formation: As the incision made during the C-section heals, scar tissue can build up and put pressure on nearby nerves, causing chronic pain and numbness.
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Signs and symptoms of nerve damage after a C-section

  • Numbness or tingling: Around the scar, groin, or inner thigh, often extending beyond the incision’s edge.
  • Shooting or burning pain: This can be sharp, intermittent, or constant, and can worsen with movement or specific activities.
  • Weakness in the abdominal muscles: Affecting bowel and bladder control, sexual function, and overall movement.
  • Sensitivity to touch: Even light brushstrokes can trigger pain or discomfort.

Blackwater Law successfully represented the family of baby Blake in making a midwife negligence claim after the community midwife failed to notice a severe medical abnormality.

New-born baby in hospital

Medical negligence and C-section nerve damage

In some cases, nerve damage arises from avoidable medical negligence during a C-section. Examples can include:

  • Failure to properly identify and protect nerves during surgery.
  • Inadequate surgical technique, causing unnecessary nerve trauma.
  • Delaying essential treatment for identified nerve injuries.

If you’re worried about having potentially been subjected to medical negligence during your C-section, it’s important to pursue legal advice to assess your options.

Blackwater Law, a leading UK firm specialising in medical negligence claims, can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process. Remember, time limits can apply to claims, so seeking advice early on is essential.

Blackwater Law’s experienced team understands the physical and emotional toll of C-section nerve damage. They offer:

  • Free initial support: To assess your situation and advise on potential legal options.
  • Expert representation: Skilled lawyers specialising in medical negligence cases.
  • Compassionate support: Dedicated caseworkers to guide you through the legal process.
  • No win, no fee agreements: You only pay if they win your case.

If you or a loved one have suffered nerve damage as a result of medical negligence during a C-section, contact Blackwater Law today to find out whether a nerve damage compensation claim could help put things right.

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