Medical negligence can happen during a pregnancy, at birth or following birth.

Despite advanced scanning being available misdiagnoses do happen. Miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies, still births, brachial palsy, brain injury and cerebral palsy are all possible consequences of unfortunate and preventable medical negligence.

Damage during the birth caused by medical instruments, anaesthetics or inadequate suturing can affect the health of both mother and baby.

Another complication can occur when a doctor carries out a surgical incision called an episiotomy which is sometimes used during child birth if a baby is in distress. This is intended to make the delivery of the baby easier. If the doctor or midwife performs the episiotomy incorrectly or fails to perform it this could lead to a second degree or third degree tearing of the skin or other complications such as incontinence.