A dedicated group should be set up to support women with mesh complications, a new report outlining their “harrowing” experiences has recommended.

The impact problems with the implants have had on women’s physical and mental health, relationships, finances and confidence in the healthcare system have been documented by the Health and Social Care Alliance.

It comes as campaigners from Scotland who have spent years highlighting problems with mesh implants meet First Minister Nicola Sturgeon in Glasgow today.

The My Life, My Experience report, which involved 46 women, found the majority experienced complications within two years of their surgery – with four in ten saying problems were evident immediately.

The most common symptoms included pain in the legs, groin, abdomen and back, bowel issues, autoimmune disorders, recurring urinary tract infections and reduced mobility.

One participant commented: “I am never without pain”.

All the women reported that mesh had “taken over their lives”, the report noted, with many experiencing suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and loss of self-worth.

One said: “This has had a huge impact on my mental health. My marriage ended and I contemplated suicide.”

Others spoke of issues such as being left housebound, friendships ending, being unable to play with their grandchildren and unable to enjoy intimate relationships with their partner.

“I know I am not going to be the mother I want to be for my boys, I can’t do the things other mothers my age do,” one woman said.

“I can’t play with them, I can’t go for exciting holidays, some days I can hardly get off the couch. As for being the wife I want to be, I can just forget about that.”

The challenges of living on a reduced income were highlighted, resulting in “significant debt” for some.

A lack of understanding from the Department of Work and Pensions as to why they were no longer able to work was also said to have caused delays in benefits and increased financial pressure.

“Living with complications of mesh usually doesn’t warrant benefits. People are being left in poverty because of this and then unable to work.”

Most of the women said they had not been given any details about potential risks or complications prior to the mesh surgery.

All said if they knew what they did now, they would not have gone ahead with the procedure.

The report has been submitted to the Scottish Government, with recommendations including setting up a stakeholder participation group and considering how women with mesh complications can be better supported.

Irene Oldfather, director of the Health and Social Care Alliance, said it was a welcome opportunity to be able to tell the stories of women with mesh complications.

“Many were harrowing to hear and we are grateful to all who contributed,” she said.

“We trust that there is a desire for ongoing involvement with those with lived experience.”