How are vaginal mesh complications diagnosed?

Early recognition of symptoms is important to prevent long-term complications, so if you have had a surgical mesh implant and are concerned that you may be experiencing symptoms due to it, then a prompt specialist assessment by an expert consultant in women’s health is recommended.

They will be able to take a detailed history from you and perform an appropriate examination as necessary.

Following this, some tests may be performed such as a check of your urine sample or special tests to assess how well the bladder is working.

Imaging of the mesh and bladder with ultrasound may also be offered as well as a cystoscopy in some cases (camera test into the bladder). What can be done about complications of vaginal mesh?

There are many treatment options available for managing mesh-related problems and each woman’s experience is unique, requiring an individualised approach to treatment planning.

Following a detailed history, examination and appropriate tests, your specialist consultant will discuss all of the treatment options available with you to help you decide on the best course of action.

Not everyone needs surgery and medications can be used to treat some of the symptoms of mesh complications:

If you are experiencing pain, pain-killers can be used to treat pelvic pain and you may be referred to a special team to help manage your pain most effectively

For women who get recurrent urinary tract infections, a short course of antibiotics or 3-6 month course of low-dose antibiotic can be used

Many women experience issues with vaginal pain and dryness, which can lead to pelvic discomfort and problems with sexual intercourse. This can be treated well with oestrogen-containing creams or pessaries.

‘Intermittent self-catheterisation’ is effective for some women in restoring urinary continence and relieving bladder discomfort without the need for complex surgery. This is where you learn how to pass a small plastic tube into the bladder to allow it to pass urine.

This is a fairly simple procedure that can be taught to you by a healthcare professional. It must be done regularly throughout the day under very clean conditions.

For some women, surgery may be necessary to remove the mesh (either partially or fully) and the risks will vary from person to person depending on the extent of their complications.

It is important to consider the risks and benefits before proceeding with mesh removal surgery and your specialist consultant will be able to explain these to help you decide on the most effective treatment plan for your needs. What surgical aftercare will be offered?

Our dedicated multidisciplinary team of specialists, nurses and support staff offer comprehensive aftercare for patients following a vaginal mesh removal. You will have follow-up with both our specialist nurses and consultant surgeons who will ensure your optimum comfort and recovery.