While mesh implants have been widely used across the UK for many years as a treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and incontinence, there have been extensive reports of numerous health complications such as debilitating pain, bleeding and difficulty walking following vaginal mesh surgery.

A review published in 2020 found that many lives had been ruined because officials failed to hear the concerns of women given the procedure, with worries and complaints often dismissed as women's problems.

Ministers have now said they will consider and respond to the recommendations made by Dr Henrietta Hughes, England's patient safety commissioner, including a potential compensation scheme for women who were injured by their pelvic mesh implants.

Linda Millband, the Head of Medical Group claims at Thompsons Solicitors which is representing over 100 women who have been injured by mesh implants, says that while many claims for compensation have already settled, a scheme would help others who are yet to come forward.

She said: "The intervention by the patient safety commissioner is a significant step forward in the devastating impact of mesh implants finally being recognised. We hope that it will help the government realise the urgency of this issue and that it understands that any proposed compensation scheme needs to address the specific needs of each victim. 

“We believe the true scale of the damage done is far greater than the official figures suggest, as we continue to take on cases daily related to mesh implants, especially concerning stress urinary incontinence.”