Vaginal Mesh Has Caused Health Problems In Many Women, An Oireachtas Health Commitee Has Heard

Thursday, 30 June 2022 15:35

By Caoimhe Harney

Two women who have been severely impacted by vaginal mesh complications spoke with Clem Ryan on Thursday's Kildare Today.

Vaginal mesh, used to repair and improve weakened pelvic tissues, is implanted in the vaginal wall. It was initially thought to be a safe and easy solution for women suffering from stress urinary incontinence.

However, over time, complications were reported, including chronic inflammation, and mesh that shrinks and becomes encased in scar tissue causing pain, infection through the vaginal wall.

Vaginal mesh is no longer being used in Ireland, however, many women are suffering from long term problem and pain due to the mesh.

Women who were affected by vaginal mesh implants addressed the Oireachtas.

Mandy Jackson (63), from Wicklow, is only starting to get her life back after almost decades of urinary tract infections which she believes were caused by vaginal mesh.

In 2019, a friend mentioned a news item about mesh injury to her, and that was where she found out about Mesh Ireland.

Mary McLaughlin, who ran it, was the first person who told her about the damage mesh was doing to some women.

Mary McLaughlin and Mandy Jackson are both vaginal mesh survivors, they joined Clem Ryan on this morning's Kildare Today to discuss the complications they experienced.

Listen back to the full interview here:

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