• 19
  • December
    2011

Female incontinence is a growing problem. Nearly 30 percent of American women experience some form of urinary incontinence. Although the incidence of incontinence increases with age, it affects women in all age groups.

One of the most common types of female urinary incontinence is stress incontinence. Generally, this is experienced as leakage of urine during activities that jar the bladder - such as coughing, sneezing, running or jumping.

Stress incontinence usually occurs because the bladder is not well supported inside the body. Women who experience stress incontinence often undergo surgery to implant a small sling - called transvaginal tape or transvaginal mesh - that goes under the urethra and prevents incontinence by keeping the urinary organs in their correct positions.

Unfortunately, transvaginal mesh surgeries may result in serious complications.

Mesh Can Erode or Shrink, Causing Injury

According to the federal Food and Drug Administration, serious complications related to transvaginal mesh implementation are prevalent.

Over time, the mesh can erode or shrink, causing pain and shortening or tightening of the vagina. Mesh erosion can be debilitating. In some cases, even multiple surgical interventions cannot repair the damage.

Many women who experience mesh erosion or shrinkage are unable to engage in sexual intercourse because it causes severe pain. Exposed mesh may also injure their sexual partners.

It is becoming increasingly clear that transvaginal mesh is a dangerous and defective medical device. Women considering a transvaginal mesh surgery should be sure to fully discuss the procedure with their doctors and make sure they understand all the risks associated with the surgery.

If you have suffered complications or injuries following a transvaginal mesh surgery, you may have legal recourse. Contact an experienced products liability attorney who can explain your options.

Source: NBC 2, "Heath Matters: Female Incontinence, a Going Problem," Nov. 29, 2011