Jacqui Shaw submission of 26 July 2021

PE1865/VV - Suspend all surgical mesh and fixation devices

I had rectopexy pelvic mesh with sacrocolpopexy & colporrhaphy fitted in 2008.

At the time I was not fully informed of the full nature and risks of this surgery. I was not offered any alternative. 

I have had very little support from the medical profession since I started to experience problems. I have autoimmune reactions as my body doesn't like my polyester mesh. I have pain 24/7. My mesh is visible to the naked eye as it is eroding through my cervix.  I have protacts by my Coccyx. I have worse symptoms now then pre-surgery. 

In 2016 I found out my mesh was rolled, rock hard, pulling like a cheese wire. It had adhered to my ovary & fallopian tube, it was attached to my bladder and sewn into my rectum and anus. My prolapse had returned. The mesh had not only failed but caused irreversible damage. 

I had partial removal, but I have no-one to remove the rest without losing my rectum. That means a permanent stoma. My bladder is effected by mesh that's pulling it so it now holds urine in pockets. I have daily accidents. I had none before mesh. 

I co-run a rectopexy support group and wish to add my details to the petition. 

I wish for all 9 recommendations made by Baroness Cumberlege to be taken seriously and implemented.

I wish for help within specialist mesh centres for all UK residents, for any mesh issues they have. 

I wish those centres to have non pro mesh surgeons to be available to help us.

Not all mesh can be removed so redress and on-going support is essential.

Many thanks please help mesh injured patients.