I had bladder prolapse about 3 1/2 years ago. My bladder was put in a mesh sling and my stitches were closed with mesh as well. I had a complete hysterectomy many years ago and am on a lot of narcotic meds which caused severe constipation leading to my forcing the bladder to stick out of the vagina.

I had to have a Rectocele surgery because the urologist didn't reinforce the wall to stop the lower bowel from coming down now that there was a space because the bladder was moved. You might have a Rectocele (lower bowel bulging and narrowing the urethra and causing problems with urination.

I have been having all the pressure you are talking about; but also have had spine fusion almost 6 years ago as well and after having my bladder surgery came down within two weeks later, edema and still have to take pills to keep the swelling down. Also came down with Statis Dermatatis a few weeks after the bladder surgery affecting ankles, feet and going to the knees. it is discoloration and blood vessels and possible ulceration under the sking. I can't help but wonder if this mesh isn't the reason for the terribe edema and the statsis, as well as this starting peripherieal neuropathy in the legs, feet and ankles. Burning and painful legs and pain up to the spine. (I know some of the spine pain is from the fusion; but worsened after bladder surgery.

I asked the Urogyncologist who did my Rectocele surgery (thru vagina and pushing the lower bowel back in place. It is now coming back again. This urogyny, when asked if he thought much of my problems were from the mesh, he said he didn't think so and the position you are put in when doing the surgery, frequently causes problems. I'm not so sure because everything is getting worse and so is the pressure.

I would suggest, if you have not already, seeing a urogyny to see if you have a Rectocele which could also be causing some of your problems as well. I did see something in Consumers about a warning from the FDA in 2008 to doctors not to use the mesh in the vaginal area because it can erode and cause a lot of pain and almost impossible to remove. This is not in all cases; only the ones the mesh has caused problems. The article said there were some women that were not affected by the mesh and did not have problems; but there were far too many that did.

I doubt if I was of any help; but am going to see my urogyny in a couple months and ask if there is some way he can tell if the mesh is eroding.


(Gerry)