The Health Regulatory Authority (ERS) is investigating the death of a baby at the end of a pregnancy in Coimbra after the family accused the hospital of negligence and lack of medical assistance.
The incident occurred at Maternidade Daniel de Matos, which is part of the Coimbra Local Health Unit (ULS), where the 43-year-old pregnant woman was directed after feeling unwell.
The woman had been monitored during her late-stage pregnancy at Maternidade Bissaya Barreto, where her last check-up took place the previous Thursday, revealing no issues.
The family, accusing the hospital of negligence and inadequate medical support, plans to file a complaint against the ULS of Coimbra.
The ERS reported it became aware of the situation through media outlets and is currently reviewing it as part of an active administrative process.
The ULS of Coimbra confirmed that a pregnant woman, at 37 weeks and 3 days, was admitted on November 1 at 10:29 PM after experiencing hemorrhaging at home.
This patient had been under appropriate monitoring at Maternidade Bissaya Barreto (MBB), with her latest consultation on October 29 showing normal clinical evaluations, ultrasound, and cardiotocography results.
Upon her arrival at the emergency department, it was decided to hospitalize her and conduct additional diagnostic tests. Cardiotocography detected “the absence of fetal vitality,” which was then confirmed by ultrasound.
A Cesarean was performed, necessitated by a pre-existing gynecological condition, and geneticist data confirmed signs of prior fetal demise.
An anatomical pathology study was initiated, with results pending.
The ULS emphasized that “the pregnant woman was thoroughly informed of her situation and offered psychological support.”
Post-operatively, the patient is reportedly recovering well, remaining hospitalized and receiving care.
“The ULS of Coimbra expresses sincere sympathy and solidarity with the mother and family,” the institution stated in its written response.
Over the weekend, the woman reportedly felt unwell, was directed to Maternidade Daniel de Matos, and initially, the baby’s vital signs appeared normal. However, she allegedly experienced a lengthy period without monitoring or assistance.
Upon medical examination, it was revealed that the baby was deceased, and she endured hours of waiting for its removal. Complications reportedly occurred afterward, requiring her to return to the operating room, according to her sister Vera Carvalho.
