Reasons for Transvaginal Mesh Implants

Transvaginal mesh is implanted under the vaginal skin to support the weakened vaginal wall in women with pelvic organ prolapse, or to support the urethra or bladder neck for the repair of stress urinary incontinence. Unfortunately, it has now become apparent that many pelvic mesh recipients have suffered crippling injuries, including mesh erosion, infections, chronic pain, and scarring, as a result of these devices. As such, thousands of women have filed transvaginal mesh lawsuits seeking compensation for their excruciating pain and suffering.

The vaginal mesh lawyers at Bernstein Liebhard LLP are already representing numerous women in lawsuits against the manufacturers of pelvic mesh products. Our attorneys are available to evaluate your case for free, and can explain the legal process involved in filing a vaginal mesh lawsuit. To learn more, and to safeguard your legal rights, please give Bernstein Liebhard LLP a call today.

Transvaginal Mesh and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the bladder, uterus and bowel become so weak that the organs drop from their normal position and bulge – prolapse – into the vagina. While pelvic organ prolapse is not life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable and greatly impact a woman’s quality of life. There are several methods of treating pelvic organ prolapse, including exercises to strengthen weakened muscles, or the use of a removable device, called a vaginal pessary, that is placed into the vagina to support areas of prolapse. Surgical treatment, using either the body’s own ligaments or a surgical mesh to support bulging organs, is also an option.

In July 2011, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) reported that there had been a fivefold increase in the number of serious complications associated with the use of transvaginal mesh to repair pelvic organ proplapse. The agency also warned that the occurrence of such complications was not rare, a change from its previous position. According to the FDA, its review has been unable to determine if transvaginal prolapse repair with mesh is more effective than traditional non-mesh repair in all patients. In fact, the FDA warned that use of pelvic mesh to repair pelvic organ prolapse could actually expose patients to greater risk.

Transvaginal Mesh and Stress Urinary Incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence is caused by insufficient strength of the pelvic floor muscles, leading to involuntary urination. To treat this problem, pelvic mesh is implanted transvaginally to support the urethra and/or bladder neck. Between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2010, the FDA received 1,371 reports of serious complications in women who had received vaginal mesh to treat incontinence. The FDA says it is continuing to evaluate the effects of using surgical mesh to repair SUI and will communicate these findings at a later date.

Have You Experienced Vaginal Mesh Complications? Speak with an Attorney Today.

If you suffered from serious complications following transvaginal mesh surgery to treat pelvic organ prolapse or stress urinary incontinence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. To learn more about filing your own vaginal mesh lawsuit, please contact Bernstein Liebhard LLP at for your free legal consultation.