ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation) recently changed their stance on injuries sustained during birth. Prior to this, part of the definition of an injury under ACC was that it needed to be an external force that caused the injury. Birth injuries are mainly an internal force. The force is produced by the uterus contracting and pushing the baby down the vaginal canal. It is this force that can cause tears and damage to the support structures of the pelvic organs (bladder, bowel, uterus).
On October 1st, 2022 ACC started covering injuries caused by the internal force of giving birth vaginally. If you have given birth on or after October the 1st 2022 and experienced one of the injuries below, it is likely you are eligible for ACC coverage.
Frequently asked questions on Maternal birthing injuries:
What birthing injuries get covered?
- A prolapse.
- Coccyx fracture or dislocation.
- Levator avulsion (part of the pelvic floor separating from the pelvic bone).
- Tears to the perineum, labia, vagina, vulva, clitoris, cervix, rectum, anus or urethra.
- Obstetric haematoma (similar to a large bruise).
- Post-partum uterine inversion.
- Pubic rami fracture.
- Pudendal neuropathy (damage to the Pudendal nerve during birth).
- Ruptured Uterus during labour
- Symphysis pubic capsule or ligament tear.
Who can lodge the claim with ACC?
Different professions can lodge for different claims. However, pelvic health physiotherapists, General practitioners, obstetrician/gynaecologists and urologists can lodge the vast majority of claims.
Do I still need to pay to see my pelvic health physiotherapist?
There is still a co-charge when seeing your pelvic health physiotherapist for a Maternal Birthing Injury. At Liberty Pelvic Health Physiotherapy we charge:
- Initial assessment: $65
- Follow up treatments: $25
If you have any further questions about Maternal Birthing Injuries, please feel free to email us info@libertyphysio.co.nz
