A 36-year-old woman from Thailand has endured agonising pain for nearly two decades after a needle was mistakenly left inside her vagina during childbirth. The shocking revelation has sparked fresh concerns over medical malpractice and healthcare oversight in Thailand.
The incident dates back 18 years, when a nurse reportedly dropped a needle into the woman’s vagina while stitching her up after delivering her baby. When the doctor attempted to retrieve it "using his fingers," he failed.
Facing a potential delay in the suturing process, which could have increased the risk of blood loss, the doctor decided to continue with the procedure, leaving the needle inside, according to the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women. This non-profit organisation was approached by the woman earlier this month for assistance.
Ever since that day, she has been plagued by persistent pain in her lower abdomen, which often flares up with intense discomfort. Yet, despite her recurring agony, it was only last year that an X-ray finally confirmed the needle’s presence, still lodged within her body.
Local doctors recommended surgery, but attempts to remove the needle have been postponed multiple times due to its constant movement inside her body. This ongoing delay has forced the woman to undergo monthly hospital visits, placing a significant financial burden on her family.
Pavena Hongsakul, head of the Pavena Foundation, intervened to facilitate her treatment. Hongsakul coordinated with a public hospital to schedule an appointment and worked with the provincial Department of Social Development and Human Security to secure transportation for the woman's frequent hospital visits.
The foundation, known for its advocacy in supporting women and children, has expressed deep concern over the case and the toll it has taken on the woman's mental and physical health.
It remains unclear when the woman might undergo the surgery she desperately needs or if she will seek legal recourse against the medical team responsible. As of now, there has been no official statement from the hospital or the health authorities regarding the alleged negligence.
This case comes in the wake of a similar incident reported in June, where another Thai woman narrowly survived after doctors left gauze inside her uterus following cancer treatment, leading to a severe infection.
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