Obstetrics and Gynaecology Negligence Claims Solicitors
Pregnancy, childbirth and gynaecological care are provided at pivotal times in a woman’s life, requiring medical professionals to act with precision and care. While most treatment is safe and supportive, mistakes can have devastating consequences for women and their families.
At Ashtons Legal, we know compensation cannot undo what you have endured, but it can provide access to treatment, rehabilitation and practical support. It also ensures your experiences are recognised and highlights failings within the healthcare system to help prevent future harm.
Our solicitors are highly experienced in obstetrics and gynaecology negligence claims, representing mothers, children and families in cases from birth injuries to surgical errors.
When you instruct Ashtons, you can expect clear, transparent guidance throughout. We explain your options in plain English, keeping you informed and supported at every stage.
Our obstetrics and gynaecology negligence claims solicitors can help you with:
- Assessing the strength of your claim and advising on funding options, including ‘no win, no fee’ arrangements
- Gathering expert medical records and obtaining independent experts reports to support your case
- Drafting and submitting a detailed Letter of Claim to the defendant, setting out the allegations of negligence
- Negotiating with the defendant to reach a fair and timely settlement
- Representing you in court proceedings if a settlement is not possible
- Securing interim payments where liability is admitted, to provide financial support while your case continues
- Offering ongoing advice from our specialist client support and rehabilitation team, including welfare and benefits advice
Contact our obstetrics and gynaecology negligence claims solicitors
If you or a family member has suffered as a result of obstetric negligence or gynaecology negligence, please do not hesitate to get in touch. We offer a free initial consultation where we can discuss your case, explain the process of bringing a claim, and outline the funding options available to you.
We have offices in Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Ipswich, Norwich, and Leeds. Call our team on 0330 404 0749, email enquiries@ashtonslegal.co.uk, or complete the enquiry form on our contact page.
Obstetrics Negligence
Obstetric negligence happens when the care provided during pregnancy, labour or postnatal care falls below the expected standard, resulting in avoidable harm.
These cases are often deeply distressing and can leave families struggling with the consequences for years to come. Our obstetric solicitors have extensive experience bringing obstetric negligence compensation claims and understand the complex medical and legal issues.
We can support clients with various types of claims, including:
Birth injury to mother or baby
Negligence during labour or delivery can lead to lasting injuries. For babies, this may include cerebral palsy, hypoxia, brachial plexus injuries or broken bones. For mothers, injuries can range from severe tearing to complications from mismanaged caesarean sections. These injuries often require lifelong care and support, making compensation vital.
Mismanagement or delayed diagnosis of perineal tears
Third- and fourth-degree perineal tears can cause significant long-term problems if they are not identified and treated correctly. Mismanagement of these injuries can lead to chronic pain, incontinence and psychological trauma.
Failure to monitor during labour
Monitoring of both the mother and baby during labour is critical. Failure to identify signs of distress, such as abnormalities in the baby’s heart rate, can result in oxygen deprivation and lifelong disabilities.
Delayed or mismanaged caesarean section
When a caesarean section is required, delays in carrying out the procedure can be catastrophic. A failure to act promptly, or errors during the operation itself, can cause serious injury to both mother and baby.
Mismanagement of pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes
Conditions such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes require careful monitoring and treatment. A failure to diagnose or manage these conditions can lead to severe complications, including seizures, organ damage, premature birth and stillbirth.
Stillbirth or neonatal death
The loss of a baby is a tragedy beyond words. In some cases, stillbirths or neonatal deaths could have been avoided with proper care. Bringing an obstetric negligence claim can help families gain answers and financial support for their future.
Negligence in antenatal or postnatal care
Errors in antenatal screening, such as missed fetal abnormalities, or failures in postnatal care, such as inadequate monitoring of the mother’s recovery, may also give rise to claims. These mistakes can leave families with long-term challenges that should have been avoided.
Gynaecology Negligence
Gynaecology negligence claims involve mistakes made in diagnosing, treating or carrying out surgical procedures relating to women’s reproductive health. Our gynaecology negligence solicitors provide expert advice in cases ranging from surgical errors to failures in diagnosing serious conditions.
To discuss your needs today, please get in touch with our gynaecology negligence solicitors.
Surgical errors in gynaecological procedures
Mistakes made during hysterectomies, laparoscopies or other operations can cause severe complications such as internal damage, infertility, or life-threatening infections.
Delays in diagnosing gynaecological conditions
Conditions like ovarian cancer, endometriosis or fibroids can worsen significantly if not diagnosed in time. A delay in treatment may reduce treatment options and affect long-term health outcomes.
Errors in fertility treatment
Fertility treatments, including IVF, must be carried out with the utmost care. Errors can include embryo mix-ups, failed transfers or negligent handling of reproductive material, all of which can have devastating consequences.
Failed sterilisation or contraceptive negligence
If sterilisation or contraceptive procedures are not carried out correctly, this can lead to unplanned pregnancies and emotional distress. Compensation may be available where negligence is proven.
Negligence in treating menstrual or pelvic disorders
Improper treatment of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, pelvic inflammatory disease or heavy menstrual bleeding can result in long-term pain, fertility issues and unnecessary suffering.
Inadequate postoperative care
After any surgical procedure, proper aftercare is essential. Failures in postoperative monitoring or treatment can lead to infections, complications and prolonged recovery.
To learn more about obstetrics and gynaecology negligence claims please get in touch.
Why choose Ashtons Legal?
At Ashtons Legal, we are recognised in the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners for excellence in clinical negligence, with accreditations including AvMA, APIL, Lexcel and the Brain Injury Group. Our reputation is built on expertise, care and determination, and we pride ourselves on delivering the highest standards of client service.
We take time to listen to your story, explain your options clearly and keep you fully informed throughout. Working with leading medical experts, we build strong cases and aim to resolve claims through negotiation wherever possible. If court proceedings are necessary, we represent you with strength and determination.
Alongside legal advice, we provide practical support with welfare benefits, rehabilitation and care funding. Choosing Ashtons means working with solicitors who combine legal expertise with genuine care for your wellbeing.
Free support and rehabilitation service
Recovering from the effects of obstetric or gynaecology negligence often involves medical treatment, rehabilitation and practical adjustments, which can be costly. At Ashtons Legal, we are committed to supporting you through this journey, regardless of the outcome of your claim.
Our specialist client support and rehabilitation team can assist you to:
- Access appropriate medical care and therapy for ongoing health needs
- Arrange a safe transition from hospital to home, including equipment or adaptations
- Apply for disability benefits, welfare support and other financial assistance
- Obtain funding to cover care at home or in the community
- Secure educational or workplace support where injuries affect long-term wellbeing
Our obstetrics and gynaecology claim fees
‘No win, no fee’ obstetrics and gynaecology claims
We are proud to offer most obstetrics and gynaecology claims on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. This means you won’t pay any legal costs if your claim is unsuccessful. Should your case succeed, our fees will represent only a small proportion of the compensation you receive, ensuring the majority of your settlement goes directly to supporting you and your family.
If you would like to discuss our fees today, please contact our obstetric negligence solicitors.
Frequently asked questions about obstetrics and gynaecology
What constitutes medical negligence in obstetrics or gynaecology?
Medical negligence occurs when the care provided by a healthcare professional falls below the expected standard, causing avoidable harm. In obstetrics, this could involve errors during pregnancy or birth. In gynaecology, it may include surgical mistakes, delayed diagnosis, or improper treatment of reproductive or pelvic health conditions.
How do I know if I have a valid claim for obstetrics or gynaecology negligence?
A valid claim requires proving that your care fell below acceptable medical standards and that this directly caused injury or worsened your condition. Legal advice and independent medical evidence are essential. A solicitor can assess whether your experiences amount to negligence and advise on your chances of success.
We have supported many clients with gynaecology compensation, and can answer any questions that you have.
What is the time limit for making an obstetrics or gynaecology negligence claim?
The general time limit is three years from the date of the negligent treatment or from when you first became aware of the injury. For children, which may be relevant in birth injury cases, the three-year limit starts at age 18. Exceptions may apply, so early legal advice is recommended to protect your right to claim.
How long does an obstetrics or gynaecology negligence claim typically take to resolve?
The length of a claim varies depending on complexity and whether liability is disputed. Straightforward cases may conclude within 18–24 months, while more complex claims involving serious injuries can take several years. Interim payments may be available in admitted cases to provide financial support before final settlement is reached.
How much will it cost to pursue an obstetrics or gynaecology negligence claim?
Many claims are funded on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis, meaning you won’t pay legal costs if the case is unsuccessful. If successful, a percentage of your compensation will go toward fees. Other funding options may include legal expenses insurance or Legal Aid in limited circumstances.
What evidence do I need to support an obstetrics or gynaecology negligence claim?
Strong evidence is crucial and may include your medical records, independent expert medical reports, witness statements, and documentation of financial losses. A solicitor will guide you in collecting and presenting evidence to prove both the negligent act and the direct harm it caused to you or your baby.
What is the process for making an obstetrics or gynaecology negligence claim?
The process starts with an initial consultation and review of your medical records. Independent experts are instructed to assess whether negligence occurred. A Letter of Claim is sent to the defendant, who must respond. Most cases settle through negotiation, though court proceedings may be required if liability is disputed.
What if my baby was injured due to obstetric negligence?
If your baby suffered avoidable harm due to negligent obstetric care, you may be entitled to compensation to cover medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lifelong support needs. These claims are often complex and require expert legal and medical input to secure a settlement that reflects your child’s long-term requirements.