In the United Kingdom, scientists from the University of Sheffield developed a new vaginal mesh material made of polyurethane instead of the current polypropylene that could help millions of women who have had life changing complications from vaginal mesh implants. The implants help women who have pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence, often as a result of childbirth, but many have had complications from the polypropylene implants.
The research provides evidence supporting the use of a softer and more elastic material better suited for use in the pelvic floor and one that releases oestrogen into the surrounding pelvic tissue to form new blood vessels and ultimately speed up the healing process. Polyurethane possesses much more elasticity than polypropylene and is therefore better equipped to sustain the pelvic organs – the bladder, bowel and vagina – exerting pressure on the pelvic floor every day.
The material will need to go through rigorous clinical trials and only once it has been approved, scientists at the University of Sheffield hope this breakthrough research will have a hugely positive impact on millions of women across the globe.