Chamber and committees

Anonymous submission of 26 July 2021

PE1865/EEE - Suspend all surgical mesh and fixation devices

I am would like to add my support to petition PE1865: Suspension of all surgical mesh and fixation devices.

I work for NHS. As a patient 8 and half years ago (I am now 51), I had an ovarian cyst removed and had a mesh tape fitted at the same time for bladder incontinence. From the word go, the pains down my inner thighs, tightness, meant that I was unable to have sex with my partner as the pain for both of us was intense. This very tight TVTO then snapped 6 months post op. I was then due a hysterectomy due to benign growths over my uterus and I agreed to another TVT which lasted until 2 years ago.

I was referred by my GP but no appointment so when my PV (vaginal) bleeding started (remembering I have a complete hysterectomy), I had to go for colposcopy to see on the screen the mesh coming through my vaginal wall. The referral was chased up then. Cystoscope, bloods have been very elevated for years showing chronic inflammatory response, I was diagnosed with auto-immune Lichen Planus a few months post hysterectomy, leading to gums receding, loss of teeth, very expensive dental work which is still ongoing, 3 monthly dental check-ups, high risk of oral cancer, all mucous membranes of my body affected by this, caused by TVT. Ruined sex life. Pressures on relationship.

Just in my short summary surely you can’t agree that this toxic mesh should continue to be used in anyone for anything? We know how toxic, plastics and man-made fibres can be.

My submission is important as one of the many people this has affected. Please stop affecting anyone else’s body.

To get this toxic mesh taken out - no one appears to have the skills or experience in this country and more worryingly mesh clinics seem to be popping up. Who is governing these clinics? This is Duty of Candour: you/NHS must do/cause no harm.

I ask you to fully support all of us affected.