What to know about synthetic surgical mesh

Mesh may be made from a medical-grade synthetic polymer and shaped for the operation. In pelvic surgery, it can support organs or help reinforce tissue around the bladder or vagina. The choice depends on the condition, the surgical route, your previous operations and your clinician’s assessment. Mesh is not suitable for every person or every procedure.

Ask which material and technique are proposed, what alternatives could meet the same goal, and whether the mesh is intended to remain in place. Discuss recovery, follow-up and symptoms that should be reported. A [Mid-Urethral Sling](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/mid-urethral-sling/) uses mesh to support the urethra, while [Sacrocolpopexy](/treatments/gynaecological-surgery/sacrocolpopexy/) can use mesh to support pelvic organs.

After surgery, contact your surgical team for increasing pain, fever, heavy bleeding, wound changes, difficulty passing urine, new bowel problems or unusual vaginal discharge. Later pelvic pain, pain during sex, bleeding or urinary symptoms also deserve assessment; they do not by themselves prove that mesh is the cause.

Ask about your individual benefit and risks, non-mesh options, the surgeon’s experience with the proposed approach, expected follow-up, and what happens if symptoms persist after healing.