Tees secured an admission of liability and a £15,000 settlement for Melissa*, whose daughter Enid* was born 13 weeks prematurely and sadly died soon after birth.
A tragic case of medical negligence
Melissa suffered a premature rupture of membranes (PROM) and was admitted to the hospital for observation and monitoring. Despite the severity of her condition, she was negligently transferred to a hospital unequipped to care for extremely pre-term babies. Tragically, Enid passed away from complications that could have been avoided if she had been treated in a specialist unit.
What happened to Melissa and Enid?
At 25 weeks pregnant, Melissa experienced a small vaginal bleed and PROM, a critical pregnancy complication that can lead to premature birth or infection. Concerned for her baby’s health, she went to the hospital and was admitted to a specialist maternity hospital with a neonatal unit equipped to care for babies born at or before 28 weeks’ gestation.
She was under the care of consultants and midwives for several days. On at least one occasion, she experienced pre-term labour, reaching 5cm dilation. Despite concerns of infection, Melissa was given antibiotics and continued to be monitored.
Inappropriate transfer and devastating consequences
Melissa was later transferred by ambulance to a hospital closer to her home. However, this hospital lacked the necessary facilities to care for babies born before 28 weeks. Upon arrival, her cervix was fully dilated, and Enid was in a difficult position. An emergency caesarean section was performed.
Enid required breathing support and was placed in the Special Care Baby Unit. Unfortunately, her breathing tube became dislodged. Despite six unsuccessful attempts to re-intubate her, Enid died at just two hours old.
Seeking justice with Tees
Devastated and seeking answers, Melissa contacted Tees to explore a medical negligence claim. We acted on her behalf under a “No Win, No Fee” agreement. Our legal team thoroughly reviewed her medical records and instructed specialists in maternity care to provide expert evidence.
Melissa claimed that her transfer to the unequipped hospital was negligent. The hospital later admitted that the decision was inappropriate and that, had Enid been born in the specialist unit, doctors likely would have successfully replaced her breathing tube, saving her life.
The case settled for £15,000, reflecting the short duration of Enid’s life. For Melissa, the settlement brought closure and acknowledgement of the failings in her care.
Support for parents after a stillbirth or neonatal death
Losing a baby is a devastating experience. Parents often feel isolated, guilty, and overwhelmed by grief. If you have suffered a traumatic birth or lost a child, Tees is here to help.
Our specialist midwifery and obstetric negligence solicitor, Gwyneth Munjoma, has extensive experience in cases involving psychological trauma and neonatal deaths. You can contact Gwyneth at our Chelmsford office on 01245 294274 or email her at gwyneth.munjoma@teeslaw.com to discuss your case.
Understanding Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)
Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM) occurs when a mother’s waters break before 37 weeks of pregnancy. The baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid, which is contained within a protective sac. When the sac ruptures too early, it can lead to premature birth or infection.
Risks Associated with PROM
- Preterm birth
- Infection in the mother’s womb (chorioamnionitis)
- Respiratory distress syndrome in the baby
- Umbilical cord complications
Prompt diagnosis and monitoring are essential to manage PROM effectively and ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby.
If you have any concerns about your care during pregnancy or after birth, our expert team at Tees is here to listen and advise.
Client names have been changed to protect their privacy.
