Main content

NHS sued over vaginal mesh implants

This programme has learnt that more than 800 women in the UK are taking legal action against the NHS and manufacturers over what they describe as "barbaric" implants.

The Victoria Derbyshire programme has learnt that more than 800 women in the UK are taking legal action against the NHS and manufacturers over what they describe as "barbaric" vaginal mesh implants.

The implants, which are used to treat pelvic organ prolapse and bladder incontinence after childbirth, can erode and cut into the vagina - causing severe pain and discomfort - and leaving some women registered disabled.

The UK regulatory body MHRA said it "sympathises" with the women affected but that it believes the benefits outweigh the risks.

An MHRA spokesman said it was "committed to help address the serious concerns raised by some patients".

It added: "The greater proportion of the clinical community and patients support the use of these devices in the UK."

Ethicon said "these devices have helped millions of women".

It said it had "acted appropriately and responsibly in the research, development and marketing of its pelvic mesh products" and would robustly defend legal action.

In this exclusive report we hear calls for them to banned on the NHS.

Release date:

Duration:

17 minutes