Why are Vaginal Mesh Implants used?

Vaginal Mesh Implants are used to strengthen vaginal tissue.  This tissue can become weakened, especially after childbirth, hernias, etc and the mesh implant can reinforce and re-strengthen this tissue.  

The vaginal mesh itself is porous to allow the body's own tissue to grow into the mesh. This is intended to create an even more reinforced structure.

Sometimes vaginal mesh implants are used when there is a vaginal prolapse.  A vaginal prolapse is a condition where the bladder, uterus and/or bowel distends into the vagina. 

A vaginal prolapse does not guarantee the use of a mesh implant.  Alternatively, biologic grafts can be used to re-strengthen vaginal tissues.  To determine whether a mesh implant or biologic graft was used you should consult your physician; however, generally biologic grafts were used if the surgery was performed through the the vaginal route.  If you had robotic surgery, then there is a higher liklihood that mesh was used.