TVT Sling Procedure (Tension-Free Vaginal Tape)

mid-urethral TVT sling is not the same as the Vaginal prolapse repair, the controversial one, but we do not use the controversial

The TVT Sling Procedure is a minimally invasive treatment most commonly used to manage stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women. The technique uses a narrow strip of synthetic mesh placed under the urethra to provide support. Because only very small incisions are required, TVT has several advantages over traditional “open” surgery, including:

• Less post-operative pain

• Faster healing time

• Lower risk of infection

• Often performed as a day-case procedure

• Quicker return to normal daily activities

When a TVT Sling is Used

You may be recommended for a TVT sling if you experience symptoms of stress urinary incontinence, such as:

• Leakage when coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising

• Weakness of the pelvic floor muscles postpartum or after menopause

• Ineffective response to pelvic floor physiotherapy or medications

A TVT sling can help restore support to the urethra, reducing or eliminating involuntary urine leakage.

How the TVT Sling Procedure Is Carried Out

Preparing for Surgery

Before undergoing a TVT procedure, you may need to attend a pre-admission clinic. During this appointment, your overall health will be assessed, and you’ll receive information about:

• Eating and drinking instructions for the day of surgery

• Medications to stop or start before the procedure

• Expected recovery time

• Whether pelvic floor rehabilitation may be needed after surgery

Your surgical team will explain the benefits and risks, and you’ll be asked to sign a consent form confirming you understand the procedure.

The Procedure

A TVT sling is usually performed under general or spinal anaesthetic, depending on what your surgeon recommends.

During the procedure:

1. The skin is cleaned with an antibacterial solution.

2. Small incisions—usually one in the vagina and two near the pubic area—are made.

3. A thin strip of mesh tape is placed under the mid-urethra to act as a supportive sling.

4. The tape is positioned tension-free, meaning it does not compress the urethra but provides gentle support.

5. The surgeon checks bladder function and positioning before closing the incisions with tape or dissolvable stitches.

The procedure usually takes around 30–45 minutes.

You can usually go home the same day or the following morning.

Recovering From a TVT Sling Procedure

Recovery time varies from person to person, but most people return to light activity within a few days.

You may need up to 2 weeks off work if your job is physically demanding.

Strenuous activity such as heavy lifting or high-impact exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks.

Contact your care team if you experience symptoms of infection, difficulty urinating, increasing pain, or unusual discharge.

After the Operation

After surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area while the effects of anaesthetic wear off. You may experience:

• Vaginal soreness

• Mild pelvic discomfort

• Temporary difficulty urinating

Before leaving, you may be assessed to ensure you can empty your bladder properly.

Recovery Advice

• Have someone drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity until cleared by your surgeon.

• Keep incisions dry—cover them when showering.

• Report fever, worsening pain, or foul-smelling discharge immediately.

A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled within a few weeks to check healing and symptom improvement.