For women who have already faced the distress of conditions like pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence, vaginal mesh implants often seem like a solution. Unfortunately, these implants can bring unbearable complications, including chronic pain, infection, painful intercourse, organ perforation, and even nerve damage.
Many women describe feeling much older and more debilitated after their mesh procedures, with pain so severe that medication and surgery offer little relief. Some women received incomplete information about the risks, including the potential for mesh migration, uterine perforation, or the requirement for a colostomy bag due to complications.
We believe that medical professionals and manufacturers should be held accountable if they use substandard vaginal mesh products, implant them improperly, or fail to warn patients of these serious risks. Every woman has a right to make an informed choice about her health, knowing all potential outcomes. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a vaginal mesh implant, you deserve justice and compensation. Contact us today to discuss your case and start the path toward healing and accountability.
What Is a Vaginal Mesh?
Vaginal mesh is a synthetic net-like implant used to treat stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse by providing additional support to weakened or damaged tissues in the pelvic region. It is intended to be a permanent solution, usually made of non-absorbable plastic, and can be placed through either the vagina or abdomen. The goal of vaginal mesh is to reinforce tissue, allowing patients to regain bladder control or correct the prolapse of organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum.
Which Complications Can Result from Vaginal Mesh Surgeries?
Vaginal mesh complications can severely impact a patient’s quality of life, with issues ranging from discomfort to more severe health risks. Common complications include:
- Pain in the pelvis, lower abdomen, or groin
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bleeding or unusual discharge
- Mesh erosion into surrounding pelvic tissues, sometimes becoming visible or palpable in the vagina
- Pain during intercourse or persistent “prickling” sensations
- Bowel or bladder problems, which can lead to difficulty urinating or worsening of previous symptoms
- Infection at the surgical site that is slow to heal.
These complications can manifest immediately or years after the procedure and may require further surgery to correct. In severe cases, the complications can be life-altering, leading to additional health issues such as organ damage or the need for lifelong medical support.
Who Is Liable for Vaginal Mesh Complications?
Liability for vaginal mesh complications may fall on multiple parties, including:
- Medical Device Manufacturers: Responsible for ensuring that the mesh products are safe, free from defects, and properly labelled with comprehensive risk information.
- Surgeons and Healthcare Providers: accountable for proper implantation of the mesh and for informing patients about potential risks, including the risk of migration, organ perforation, and chronic pain.
- Hospitals and Clinics: Can be liable if insufficient care, inadequate resources, or lack of patient follow-up contributes to the development or worsening of mesh complications.
Under What Circumstances Can You Bring a Vaginal Mesh Claim?
You may be eligible to bring a vaginal mesh claim if you experience complications arising from a defect in the device or inadequate medical care during implantation. Specific circumstances that can give rise to a claim include:
- Device Migration: If the mesh migrates within the body, causing pain, organ damage, or requiring additional surgery.
- Organ Perforation: Mesh implants that perforate organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or bowel, can cause severe health complications and often necessitate corrective procedures.
- Chronic Pain or Inflammation: Persistent pelvic or vaginal pain that is resistant to pain management may indicate a defect in the mesh or improper placement.
- Infections and Recurrent UTIs: Ongoing infections and urinary tract issues after mesh implantation can arise from a defective or improperly sterilised device.
- Painful Sexual Intercourse: Pain during intercourse due to mesh erosion or improper placement can affect intimacy and quality of life.
- Lack of Informed Consent: If the healthcare provider failed to inform you of the risks associated with mesh implantation, you may have grounds for a claim.
The Vaginal Mesh Claim Process
After our consultation with you, we will review your medical records and collect evidence of the issues you have faced since the implant, including any subsequent treatments or surgeries required. By consulting with medical experts, we determine whether the complications are due to a defective device or medical negligence and establish a clear link between the mesh implant and your injuries.
Once we have gathered the necessary evidence, we prepare and file the claim on your behalf, seeking compensation for pain, suffering, medical expenses, and any financial impact on your life. Throughout this process, we prioritise clear communication and work to achieve a fair outcome, whether through settlement negotiations or court representation.
Statute of Limitations
For claims related to a defective vaginal mesh device, section 7 of the Liability for Defective Products Act 1991 provides a three-year window to bring a claim from the date the damage occurred or when you became aware of the defect, damage, and the identity of the producer.
Claims are subject to a ten-year limit from when the product was first put into circulation, meaning that even if you discover the defect later, you may be unable to claim unless proceedings begin within ten years of the product’s release.
If your claim relates to medical negligence, then the Statute of Limitations Act 1957 applies, generally giving two years from the “date of knowledge” to file your claim.
How Much Compensation Can You Expect?
Compensation for vaginal mesh claims depends on several factors, including the severity and duration of symptoms, the extent of the medical and psychological impact, and the costs associated with corrective treatments.
According to the Personal Injuries Guidelines, compensation is awarded based on general damages for pain and suffering and special damages for out-of-pocket expenses such as medical bills, lost earnings, and rehabilitation needs. For instance, chronic pain, organ perforation, or cases resulting in permanent damage can attract higher awards, often reflective of the long-term effects on quality of life and personal relationships.
We can assist you in calculating a tailored compensation estimate based on your unique circumstances, ensuring all factors are taken into account. Contact us today for a detailed assessment and to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Start Your Vaginal Mesh Claim
If you have suffered from vaginal mesh complications, Michael Boylan Litigation is here to support you. Reach out to us today to start your claim and take the first step towards justice and relief.
*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement. This statement is made in line with regulation 8 of the Solicitors Advertising Regulations 2019.
