Mum's perforated bowel ordeal after scan error

"No-one should have to go through what I did after having a baby," said Natalie after a harrowing post-birth ordeal.

On 11 January 2023, she welcomed her baby girl into the world by caesarean section at Birmingham's Good Hope Hospital, but the newborn bliss soon turned sour and she was left needing emergency surgery for a perforated bowel.

"I knew something wasn't right after Brooke was born, but it felt like my concerns weren't being taken seriously," the 37-year-old from Solihull said.

A University Hospitals Birmingham spokesperson said the Trust "is committed to providing safe, high-quality care" to all patients and to "learning from when things do not go as expected."

Just days after the birth, she began to suffer severe pain and swelling in her abdomen but says her symptoms were downplayed.

As well as debilitating pain, she also suffered vomiting, which included faecal matter, but on 14 January, doctors misinterpreted her scan as showing temporary slowing of her bowel's movements following surgery, medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell said.

"My condition got worse over several days. Being told I needed emergency surgery is something I'll never forget. I was frightened I might die," the factory worker added.

Despite raising concerns, her condition deteriorated and she developed sepsis. On 18 January, she underwent emergency surgery, in which part of her bowel was removed and a stoma fitted.

The Trust admitted admitted a breach of duty and that a CT scan carried out four days earlier was incorrectly reported.

Decisions about Natalie's care were based on that error, the Trust has said.

"As legal discussions are ongoing, it would not be appropriate to comment on the detail of the case, however, we are working constructively with [Natalie's] representatives."

The mother, who also has a 15-year-old son, explained: "The impact on my life has been huge and I still live with the effects. I continue to struggle with pain, fatigue and digestive problems. It's affected everything from being able to do daily tasks to how I've been able to care for Brooke and Callum."

Natalie is now campaigning for women to receive better care following childbirth and to ensure their concerns are heard.

She added: "I just want other women to be listened to and for warning signs after birth not to be missed."

Jade Elliott-Archer, of Irwin Mitchell, said: "Our investigations have identified concerning failings in how Natalie's condition was recognised and responded to as her condition worsened.

"While these admissions provide Natalie with answers she deserves, they also highlight serious concerns about the care women can receive after birth."

Natalie has since had further surgery, including reversal of the stoma and treatment for complications including a hernia and ongoing wound problems.

"If my experience helps improve care for even one mum, then it will have been worth it," she said.

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