The loss of a baby is one of the most heartbreaking experiences a family can endure. When that loss is caused by medical negligence, it raises serious concerns about the standard of care provided. Switalskis recently represented a client in a complex medical negligence claim following the stillbirth of her baby. This case underscores the vital importance of timely escalation, clear communication and sound clinical judgment in high-risk maternity care.

A High-Risk Pregnancy Ignored

Our client had a complex medical history, including gestational diabetes, pregnancy-induced hypertension, pre-eclampsia and HIV. As a result, she was identified as high-risk early in her pregnancy. She began low-dose aspirin at 12 weeks and remained under close antenatal supervision.

At just over 25 weeks pregnant, she attended at hospital with severe abdominal pain, vomiting, sweating and dizziness. Observations showed concerning signs, including low blood pressure, an elevated heart rate, abdominal distension and no urine output for six hours - all indicators of a potential obstetric emergency.

Despite these red flags, she was not reviewed by a consultant and her care was not properly handed over. She remained unassessed for more than three hours until a midwife responded to a distress call. By then, she was unresponsive, with no detectable blood pressure and a critically low heart rate. Tragically, no foetal heartbeat could be detected and an ultrasound later confirmed the baby had died.

A Delayed Emergency Response

An emergency caesarean section was arranged but was incorrectly categorised as low urgency, causing further delays. By the time surgery began, our client’s condition had deteriorated significantly - she was peri-arrest. A spinal anaesthetic failed and general anaesthesia was required. During surgery, a catastrophic uterine rupture and significant internal bleeding were discovered. She required extensive blood transfusions and was admitted to critical care, where she remained ventilated for several days. While she has made some physical recovery, she continues to suffer significant psychological trauma and faces ongoing reproductive health complications.

How Switalskis Helped

Following an internal investigation, the Trust responsible for the hospital involved admitted to failures in timely assessment and escalation. Initially, they denied these failings caused the baby’s death. However, after expert reports from obstetric, neonatal and psychiatric specialists were presented, the Trust accepted that earlier intervention would likely have resulted in a live birth.

The claim was settled for £58,000, reflecting the physical and psychological harm caused by the negligent care.

Contact Our Specialist Solicitors

This case illustrates the critical importance of rapid escalation and senior clinical involvement in high-risk pregnancies. At Switalskis, our maternity negligence solicitors are committed to supporting families affected by stillbirth and substandard maternity care. While no amount of compensation can undo the tragedy, pursuing a claim can bring accountability and help drive improvements in care.

If you or a loved one has been affected by maternity or stillbirth negligence, contact our specialist medical negligence team on 0800 1380 458 or email help@switalskis.com