Mesh implant facts

Read our guide and share our infographic below to learn everything about mesh implants, from the facts to the problems and side effects associated with them.

What is a mesh implant used for?

A mesh implant is most commonly used to treat stress urinary incontinence in women, a condition which can occur in some women after pregnancy or hysterectomy. This most common form of treatment is known as tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) and involves placing medical mesh under the urethra, like a sling to keep it in place. Mesh implants are now also used to treat conditions such as hernias and prolapse in men, women and, in some cases, even children.  Other types of mesh are TVT-O or TOT or rectopexy. Mesh is also used for Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP).

What are the mesh complications?

There have been many complications and side effects reported from mesh implants. Some of the mesh implant symptoms from clients that we have represented include:

• Internal bleeding
• Bladder infections
• Vaginal scarring
• A difficulty or inability to walk
• Severe and persistent pain
• Incontinence
• Inability to have sexual relationships/ Dyspareunia

Mesh implant statistics

Between 2006 and 2017, more than 127,000 women in the UK have had mesh implants for POP and tension-free vaginal tape for stress incontinence (SUI) to treat incontinence and prolapse alone. Hundreds more have been offered mesh surgery as a treatment for rectal prolapses and abdominal hernias. 

Private healthcare providers have not published their statistics on mesh use, which means that we may never know how many people have been treated with mesh.

What should I do if I think I am experiencing mesh implant problems?

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should contact your GP immediately and insist they refer you to a hospital for tests to see if your mesh implant could be the cause of your symptoms. Don’t be put off by being told that your condition is related to something else or allow people to say you are just making a fuss. You are entitled to be able to reassure yourself that mesh is not the cause of your symptoms.

If you are experiencing mesh implant problems, our medical negligence lawyers will be able to advise you as to whether you could make a no win, no fee medical negligence claim. We’re currently representing hundreds of patients who have experienced mesh implant side effects, in claims for compensation.