Mum's perforated bowel ordeal after scan error

Natalie is sitting upright in a hospital bed, cradling a newborn baby wrapped in a patterned blanket and cream-coloured knitted hat. The hospital room contains medical equipment and bedside supplies, with pillows propped behind the patient and bedding covering most of the bed. A blue cooling eye mask rests on the person's forehead, while the baby is held close against their chest.

Image source, NatalieImage caption,

The mum-of-two knew something was not right after she gave birth but says she was ignored

ByOprah FlashWest Midlands

Published35 minutes ago

"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."

Natalie is lying in a hospital bed wearing a hospital gown and receiving oxygen through a face mask. Medical equipment, monitors and tubing are visible around the bed, indicating a high-dependency or intensive care setting. The patient is covered with white bedding, and a scar can be seen on one arm

Image source, NatalieImage caption,

Natalie begun vomiting faecal matter just days after giving birth

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."

Natalie is seated indoors holding a newborn baby wrapped in a pink, yellow and white knitted blanket. The baby is wearing a light-coloured knitted hat and is nestled against the person's chest.

Image source, NatalieImage caption,

Natalie is now calling on the NHS Trust to improve care for mothers after birth

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."

Natalie is lying on a bed beside a baby dressed in a white outfit. The person is wearing a light blue fleece robe with a cloud pattern, and both are positioned against white pillows and bedding.

Image source, NatalieImage caption,

Following the emergency surgery, she has since needed further procedures including reversal of the stoma and ongoing wound problems

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.