Pelvic or transvaginal mesh is an implant constructed of polypropylene, commonly used following pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Muscles in the area weaken, causing the pelvic organs –bladder, rectum and uterus – to drop down into the vagina as a result of age, childbirth, or hysterectomy. Common symptoms can include pain and bladder leakage.
The mesh is implanted as a permanent solution for pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence. The device intended to restore semblance of normal life for some women instead wreaked havoc. In 2011, the FDA issued a report which outlined their concerns and the injuries potentially linked to pelvic mesh medical devices. Complications include
- Device failure
- Revision surgery to remove the device
- Infection
- Vaginal scarring
- Mesh erosion
- Extreme pain
- Perforations of the bowel, bladder or blood vessels
- Dyspareunia (Painful Sexual Intercourse)
- Recurrence Of Urinary Incontinence