Breaking the Silence – Vaginal mesh and Post Natal Prolapse

Vaginal mesh is sometimes picked up and discussed in the media but is there hope for those who have suffered due to problems with it?

We often hear of men suffering from a stubborn injury or unexplained symptoms yet reluctant to attend his GP until persuaded to do so by his partner.

The failure of men to attend GP’s for checks or screening appears to be a commonly accepted cultural phenomenon. Various initiatives have been tried in recent years. These aim to encourage men to talk more openly to medical professionals about their bodies and health issues. The results are patchy.

We are less familiar with women’s reluctance to discuss health concerns with their family or GP.

There is a misconception that women will naturally be willing to report all health issues, almost without pause for thought. But is this right?

This was discussed in the guardian articles linked here Vaginal mesh

Vaginal mesh – The reports

Recent reports in relation to gynaecological mesh litigation, show the reality is different. Many women remain deeply uncomfortable talking about the physical and psychological issues that they face.

This may be because, in the case of unsuccessful mesh surgery, they fear the prospect of yet more invasive procedures. These may have marginal prospects of success even when removing the entire mesh implant.

Many women suffer in silence rather than report failure. It is thought this stems from embarrassment in raising the issue of post-natal incontinence and / or pelvic prolapse.

It seems ironic when so much is discussed publicly about sexual matters that our inevitable reaction when confronted with the all too common consequences and realities of childbirth, is to ask no further questions and to carry on a conversation with an entirely new topic. This serves only to maintain the fiction that such issues do not exist.

Sadly even now post-natal incontinence and prolapse repair surgery and the consequences remain are largely discussed exclusively in the female realm. Consequently the extent of the problems and often those affected remain (literally) hidden behind closed doors.

Surgery and repair

Post-natal incontinence and / or pelvic prolapse are conditions for which gynaecological mesh remains the recommended repair option. Doctors will refer to the large number of clinical studies showing that the surgical procedures and products themselves are sound. The papers often show that any problems experienced are unusual.

Women who have struggled to raise concerns have usually been silenced by the reaction of their own doctors. Few go on to challenge this or seek further opinion.

Society

Today’s body conscious world with heightened focus on appearance, serves only to increase distress in women. Many are already emotionally vulnerable following successive surgeries. Often they feel unable to match society’s expectation or ideals

Impact on vaginal mesh victims – the brick wall

But what about those where it does not succeed?

There is no historic database of reported mesh problems. This has compounded difficulties in efforts to form a cohesive action group.

Women’s reluctance to report the many and varied problems caused by the implants means that the extent of the issue (problems and numbers affected) remains uncertain. The affect is that in this silence many women will ultimately find themselves statute barred by the law if they try to pursue litigation against the manufacturer at a future date.

At Corries Solicitors Ltd, we recognise that the prospect of any litigation will add anxiety and distress.

Our all  female team of specialist clinical negligence solicitors provide objective professional advice combined with sensitivity and empathy. We focus on shielding our clients from further distress, whilst supporting them through the litigation process.

Give us a call for a FREE confidential advice NOW on 0800 881 5103