The US FDA issued a warning in Oct 2008 regarding serious complications associated with transvaginal placement of surgical mesh in the repair of pelvic organ prolapse and for stress urinary incontinence. While acknowledging that complications are rare, the FDA recommends that prospective patients are warned about possible permanent and uncorrectable complications. Many women will see this warning as further evidence that the conservative approach of pelvic floor strengthening is a better starting option for these conditions, as recommended by expert bodies such as the International Consultation on Incontinence 2008.
