Patients' perspectives about doctor-patient communication regarding transvaginal mesh implant surgery

Many women experience pelvic floor disorders which may require medical intervention such as transvaginal mesh implant surgeries (TVM; the abdominal or vaginal insertion of woven netting to support pelvic tissue). We examined women's perceptions of communication with their health professionals concerning TVM.

We analysed 153 women's written submissions to an Australian Government Inquiry regarding their experiences of transvaginal mesh surgery to explore their perceptions of TVM-related doctor-patient communication. Data were analysed using deductive and inductive reflexive thematic analysis.

Women expressed several challenges in their communication with their health professionals. Three themes regarding communication were generated: Insufficient information was abundant; Normalisation and minimisation of the procedure and risks; and, Desired communication interactions.

According to women's accounts, doctor-patient communication was poor. Health professionals must be knowledgeable about medical procedures and their potential complications and provide their patients with adequate, accurate information to make informed choices about their health. Health professionals should also document informed consent.

Health professionals should be well-informed about TVM, including best-practice treatments for pelvic floor disorders, indications for TVM, the risks, outcomes and potential complications from various forms of TVM, and ways to adequately communicate sufficient information to women.