Our client consulted her GP in relation to undergoing a cervical screening test, and insertion of a Mirena contraception device. She was referred to a specialist medical centre.
Under anaesthetic, the Specialist used a metal speculum that had been placed in a steam steriliser and without cooling the speculum partially inserted the hot instrument into our client’s vagina.
After inserting the instrument, the skin around our client’s perineum became red and began to blister. Upon noticing the injury, the specialist removed the device and then cooled it down, before reinserting it back into our client’s vagina.
Following the procedure, our client was not informed of the injury, and alarmingly, the incident was not recorded in her medical notes, nor reported to her GP.
Three days after the procedure, our client presented to her GP complaining of significant vaginal pain and bleeding, and a feeling of having been “raped,” which she described as having continued to worsen over the preceding days.
On examination, the GP noted swelling and ulceration of our client’s vagina, as well as extensive dead skin, redness, swelling and bruising. The GP telephoned the specialist medial centre, who then explained what had occurred.
Our client was treated by her GP for burns, however, due in part to the delay of the recognition of the injury, she experienced significantly problematic outcomes which included suffering from extreme pain, and a thickened and scarred labium as well as psychological injury and developed bulimia.
Some years later, our client was referred to a specialist gynaecologist for the purpose of replacing the Mirena. Upon examination our client was advised that, due to the thickened labial skin, surgery would be advisable.
Accordingly, our client underwent surgery to repair the injured labia. Our client has slowly started to recover physically and emotionally since the surgery.
We were pleased to provide representation and support her in receiving substantial compensation for her injuries.
If you or a loved one has experienced gynaecological injuries, our expert female lawyers can help advocate for you and seek justice. Please talk to us about the options available to you. At Catherine Henry Lawyers, we can help provide you with the support and expertise you need.
Taking legal action can also help change health care practices and hold health care professionals to account so other people do not have to experience what you went through.
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