Surgical mesh has been in gynecological use since the 1970s. Howver, transvaginal mesh wasn’t approved by the Food and Drug Administration for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) until 2002. Childbirth is a major risk factor for both POP and SUI. Transvaginal mesh can help alleviate related pain by supporting the vaginal wall. This reinforces the vaginal wall and returns it to its original, more comfortable position. Unfortunately, undisclosed pelvic mesh risks are at the heart of mounting product liability lawsuits from injured women.
Pelvic Mesh Risks Trigger Thousands of FDA Adverse Event Reports
However, thousands of women have reported complications over the years due to their transvaginal mesh implants. Between 2008 and 2010, the FDA received 2,874 reports regarding transvaginal mesh side effects. While the FDA recommends medical practitioners take the proper precautions to prevent complications from arising after surgery, injuries from transvaginal mesh devices are commonplace.
The devices can cause a range of complications, from mesh erosion and contraction to infection and a return of POP and/or SUI. Severe pain is frequently reported. In certain instances, women must undergo surgical mesh removal to find relief. Yet surgery isn’t always an option, nor does it repair transvaginal mesh damage.
Tens of Thousands of Women Suing for Undisclosed Pelvic Mesh Risks
Women who have experienced these negative side effects of transvaginal mesh have taken their injuries to court. By October 2013, there were more than 10,000 lawsuits filed in federal court. In fact, approximately 30,000 women have sued transvaginal mesh manufacturers for damages due to their injuries. Numerous women have been able to receive compensation by seeking legal action, claiming manufacturers failed to adequately test the products and inform physicians about the risks associated with the devices. In certain instances, women have even cited a lowered quality of life from their transvaginal mesh implants, reporting the devices don’t just damage them physically, but emotionally as well.
What You Can Do
If you suffered transvaginal mesh complications, you may be eligible for financial compensation from the manufacturer. Complete a free transvaginal mesh claim review today. Then, an attorney will contact you shortly to discuss your case.
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.