Because of the severe—and common—risks associated with pelvic mesh, talk to your doctor. There are key questions patients should ask before implantation, after surgery, and prior to filing a pelvic mesh lawsuit.
Why Pelvic Mesh Lawsuit Filings are on the Rise
Pelvic mesh is a net-like implant usually made of a plastic material called polypropylene. The mesh is used for women who undergo surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Doctors most commonly insert the mesh through the vagina.
Unfortunately, in many cases the pelvic mesh has caused major complications, such as mesh erosion and perforation of the organs in women. Other side effects include vaginal epithelium erosion, serious infections, bowel perforation, bladder perforation, return of pelvic organ prolapse, pain and scarring, and urinary incontinence.
These severe side effects can be fatal, and many lawsuits have been filed against pelvic mesh manufacturers by patients who have experienced severe health complications as a result of having pelvic mesh used in their surgeries.
Steps to Take for More Pelvic Mesh Information
Be aware of the risks associated with pelvic mesh surgery. You may also consider talking to your doctor about your other options, both with and without mesh. Be sure that you understand why you doctor is recommending treatment with mesh.
And make sure you ask your doctor these questions after surgery and are able to describe any pelvic mesh side effects:
- Attend your annual and routine exams, and all follow-up care
- Notify and discuss with your health care provide of any complications or symptoms—including persistent vaginal bleeding or discharge, pelvic or groin pain, or pain during sex
- If any symptoms persist, especially following your follow-up appointment, notify your doctor
- Let all other health care providers know you have surgical mesh if you require any additional or other medical care
- Ask your doctor for more information when you have questions
Nearly $1 Billion Paid In Pelvic Mesh Lawsuit Settlements
Today, pelvic mesh lawsuit settlements total almost $1 billion. By 2014, about 50,000 pelvic mesh lawsuit claims were filed. Pelvic mesh risks can frequently outweigh the benefits. Be sure to discuss the possible side effects as well as any other concerns with your health care provider.
If you are interested in finding out if you may be able to file a pelvic mesh lawsuit, fill out our free transvaginal mesh case review today.
Lori Polemenakos is Director of Consumer Content and SEO strategist for LeadingResponse, a legal marketing company. An award-winning journalist, writer and editor based in Dallas, Texas, she's produced articles for major brands such as Match.com, Yahoo!, MSN, AOL, Xfinity, Mail.com, and edited several published books. Since 2016, she's published hundreds of articles about Social Security disability, workers' compensation, veterans' benefits, personal injury, mass tort, auto accident claims, bankruptcy, employment law and other related legal issues.