Hernia Mesh Repair

A mesh refers to a flat sheet of prosthetic material utilized to cover or patch a hernia—a condition where an organ or fatty tissue protrudes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. This mesh is surgically implanted into the upper stomach, groin, or abdomen of patients that go through an hernia surgery, providing reinforcement and stability to the weakened area.

My journey with hernia mesh repair began unexpectedly. It was during a leisurely day at the beach that I first noticed a peculiar sensation—a small, yet distinct bulge beneath my sternum. As a former ICU nurse, my mind immediately delved into the darkest recesses of medical possibilities. However, I chose to set aside my concerns until our return to Boulder, where I promptly scheduled an appointment with my family doctor.

Following a series of diagnostic tests, including an ultrasound, I was diagnosed with an abdominal hernia—a condition where the mouth of my stomach protruded through my abdominal wall. The recommendation from the general surgeon I consulted was clear: a mesh repair surgery was advised. Despite the initial shock, the surgeon approached the decision with sensitivity, acknowledging the small size of the hernia and my ongoing pregnancy and postpartum athleticism certification.

In November 2022, four years postpartum, I did the mesh repair surgery. While the procedure itself was relatively straightforward, the days following were anything but easy. The pain was relentless, making simple tasks like laughing, sneezing, or even turning while sleeping excruciatingly difficult. It was a month of minimal activity, followed by a slow and steady return to postpartum workouts to regain strength and confidence.

Four months post-surgery, I found myself back on the track, running with determination. After two months of postpartum workouts and another two months of Giorgia fitMindset workouts, I strated Crossfit. However, as I entered the last trimester of my third pregnancy, the fear of damaging the mesh gets intense.

To mitigate this risk, I embarked on a journey of pelvic floor physical therapy, focusing on proper breathing techniques to alleviate pressure on the mesh.

As I navigate the challenges of pregnancy trying to be active while safeguarding my mesh repair, I am reminded of the resilience of the human body and the importance of listening to its cues. My journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the invaluable support of healthcare professionals.