CArE for OAsI Study: Care Pathways and Anorectal Evaluation for OASI Associated Incontinence
This study, called CArE for OAsI, is investigating the current care pathways for women who experience bowel control issues after a severe tear during childbirth, known as an Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI). These tears can lead to distressing symptoms like accidental bowel leakage. The researchers want to understand what care is currently provided, how effective it is, and whether women are getting the support they need. By improving these care pathways, the study hopes to better safeguard women's health, ensure proper follow-up, and potentially reduce the financial burden on the NHS from related legal cases. It focuses on women who developed incontinence within five years of a vaginal delivery.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Childbirth is a natural process, but sometimes it can lead to complications. One such complication is a tear that affects the muscles around the back passage, known as an Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI). These tears are usually classified into different grades, with Grade 3 and 4 being the most serious as they affect the muscles that control your bowels. While these injuries can be distressing, it's important to remember they are a recognised complication of vaginal delivery and don't necessarily mean there was any negligence.
Following such an injury, some women may experience ongoing problems like accidental bowel leakage, difficulty holding on, or even bladder issues. These symptoms can be very upsetting and impact a woman’s daily life and overall well-being. This study aims to understand how our health system currently supports women experiencing these problems. The researchers want to map out the care journey for women with OASI-related incontinence to identify what’s working well and where improvements could be made.
The main goal is to make sure that women who experience these injuries get the best possible follow-up and care. By improving the care pathways, the study hopes to ensure that women receive adequate support, even if they find it difficult to talk about their symptoms. Ultimately, this research is about helping women recover and live healthier lives without the long-term impact of these injuries, while also making the best use of NHS resources.
Key takeaways
- Study focuses on severe tears during childbirth (OASI).
- Aims to improve care for women with related bowel control issues.
- Investigates current NHS care pathways and follow-up.
- Participation contributes to better future patient support.
- Primarily for women 18-50 who developed symptoms within 5 years of delivery.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for women between 18 and 50 years old who have developed bowel control issues linked to a severe tear (OASI) they sustained during a vaginal delivery within the last five years. You might be eligible if you've been referred to a specialist perineal clinic, or if you feel you haven't received adequate follow-up for your injury.
To take part, you need to be able to understand the study information, weigh up the pros and cons, and clearly communicate your decision. You also need to be able to speak and read English. The study is not open to women who cannot give their consent, have severe mental health conditions, or whose bowel control issues are caused by something other than their childbirth injury. Women who have already gone through menopause are also not eligible, nor are those who were referred directly from the maternity unit to a perineal clinic with an existing referral policy.
The study also includes a separate part for healthcare professionals. This part is for gynaecologists and obstetricians in UK NHS hospitals who regularly care for patients with OASI and are on the GMC specialist register. Trainees or doctors not routinely involved in OASI care are not eligible for this part.
- Are you a woman between 18 and 50 years old?
- Did you have bowel control problems after a vaginal delivery within the last 5 years?
- Were your bowel control problems linked to a severe tear (OASI)?
- Can you understand spoken and written English and give consent?
- Are your bowel control issues not due to other medical conditions?
This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.
What does participation involve?
The information provided does not detail what specific interventions or assessments participation would involve for individual patients. It mentions that the study aims to ascertain existing care pathways for women, suggesting it may involve understanding your experience with current care, possibly through questionnaires, interviews, or reviewing your medical records. The study does not specify any new medications or treatments being given, and there is no mention of the number of visits, specific assessments like ultrasound or biofeedback, or the total duration of involvement for patients.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- London Northwest Healthcare NHS TrustLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is an Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI)?
It's a serious tear during childbirth affecting the muscles around your back passage (anus), such as Grade 3 or 4 tears.
Why is this study important?
It aims to understand and improve how women with bowel control problems after an OASI are cared for by the NHS, ensuring they get the support they need.
What are 'care pathways'?
These are the planned steps and services a patient goes through from diagnosis to treatment and follow-up.
Will I receive new treatment by taking part?
No, the study is focused on understanding existing care. It doesn't offer new treatments or interventions.
Who is funding this study?
The information provided does not state who is funding this study.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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