Maternal death claims – negligence causing a mother’s death in childbirth

The death of a mother during pregnancy or childbirth is devastating for the partner and family and has long-term consequences for the children. The bereaved partner may be left coping with feelings of grief, shock, anger and confusion, whilst facing the practical and financial challenges of losing the family’s main child-care giver, homemaker or income earner. If the partner has to give up work to provide the supportive and stable home life that the young children need, this can lead to further financial hardship.

Where the maternal death was the result of negligent medical or maternity care, the dependent family may be entitled to compensation.

We understand that considering compensation to ease money concerns can seem difficult whilst coming to terms with the loss of a partner and children’s mother. Our birth injury specialists are here to help and handle each family’s case with compassion and sensitivity. As time goes on, many families find that compensation helps by paying for assistance and support, replacing lost income, and restoring financial stability.

Our medical negligence solicitors are highly experienced in securing the help and financial compensation that our clients deserve after losing a partner or mother as a result of negligent medical or maternity care.

Our clients benefit from:

• free initial advice about making a maternal death medical negligence claim and responding to HSIB/HSSIB/CQC or NHS Resolution;
• no win no fee funding arrangements;
• advice and representation at an inquest;
• interim payments to ease financial hardship and meet necessary expenses;
• compensation for the long-term financial losses arising from the parent or partner’s death.

What is maternal death?

Maternal death means the death of a woman (or pregnant/birthing person) during or up to six weeks after the pregnancy ends, from causes related to or worsened by pregnancy or its management. The pregnancy may end in birth, stillbirth, miscarriage or termination.

What are the leading causes of maternal death?

Medical conditions or complications which cause maternal death and commonly lead to medical negligence claims include:

• venous thromboembolism (VTE) - blood clots, thrombosis, embolism;
• heart failure or cardiac arrest;
• brain or neurological causes  - epilepsy, intracranial haemorrhage, stroke;
• uterine rupture and/or obstetric haemorrhage (severe bleeding); eclampsia (seizures or fits related to high blood pressure or hypertension) or HELLP syndrome;
• obstructed or traumatic labour;
• complications of caesarean section;
• infection and sepsis;
• anaesthetic injury;
• complications of other conditions (comorbidities), such as diabetes, asthma.

Maternal death is usually preventable with correct care during pregnancy, delivery (birth) and postnatally. This includes ongoing assessment of the mother’s risk factors, and early diagnosis and treatment of obstetric complications or existing medical conditions.