What is It and Its Purpose
It’s a net-like implant that helps treat pelvic organ prolapse – a condition that involves the descent of your bladder, uterus or rectum from your vagina. Sounds horrifying, right? It can happen to any woman regardless of the age and body type. Its risk factors range from genetics to vaginal delivery. This situation should not be taken lightly as it can make going about your normal daily routine impossible.
The main purpose of the transvaginal mesh is to protect the native tissue of your vagina. The tissue may already have been stretched out and is not strong in the first place. Using the mesh is highly suggested by doctors to provide better suspension or support for the tissues.
The Reason Behind the Numerous Commercials
Transvaginal mesh has indeed made its own name in the industry as fast as wildfire. Many patients who have had the device implanted have experienced varying complications and injuries. They are looking for law firms to represent them in their complaints these days. It turns out, the device was not properly tested for long term treatment.
Prior to transvaginal mesh, doctors used a procedure that is referred to native tissue repair involving the use of absorbable sutures. Unfortunately, the medical procedure had a 30 percent failure rate which is why doctors looked for another way to correct incontinence and repair abdominal hernias.
The device was advertised to doctors as durable with high success rates and fast recovery outcomes. However, it was not tested for long-term use and no clinical data was present to support its claims. Some of the women who have had transvaginal mesh implanted in them experienced bleeding, pain and even erosion – this means that the mesh was moving around their vaginal wall and even through their organs.
What You Should Know
If you are still in your 20s or 30s, then there is no need for you to have a transvaginal mesh implanted. Although there are women who have complaints about the device, some have had successful surgery outcomes too. Some hospitals have also ceased the use of the device yet some still continue to conduct transvaginal mesh-augmented repairs.
If worse comes to worst and you experience a prolapse, ask your doctor for a different option. Some doctors insert a pessary, which is a rubber-like piece that holds things up, instead of a mesh. A great way to prevent this from happening to you is to strengthen your vaginal muscles. Performing kegels on a regular basis is a good start. Keeping your weight healthy through proper diet and exercise is also a good help.