Having recourse to bariatric surgery (
Gastric Sleeve,
Gastric Bypass or
Gastric band ) entails dramatic weight loss and the prevention of obesity-related diseases. However, can ex-patients of bariatric surgery get pregnant and are there any precautions or advice to take into account?
The effects of obesity on pregnancy
Studies have shown that obesity has negative effects on pregnant women and on the development of foetuses. For pregnant women, obesity can increase the risk of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and other diseases.
Obesity can also affect foetus growth, duration of gestation and increase the risk of foetal malformation. Bariatric surgery, which is experiencing a tremendous growth nowadays thanks to its satisfying results, not only decreases the risk of obesity-related diseases, but also ensures a safe pregnancy for both the mother and the child.
Is it possible to get pregnant after bariatric surgery?
Yes, it is possible to get pregnant after bariatric surgery; health amelioration can even lead to successful childbirth. Thanks to weight loss after bariatric surgery, fertility is creased and the chances of getting pregnant become higher. However, it is recommended not to get pregnant before your weight has officially stabilized (which usually takes from twelve to eighteen months depending on the patient’s medical case).
If the patient does not want to get pregnant after bariatric surgery, she may have recourse to contraceptives. It is recommended not to take oral contraceptives as they may lose effect due to malabsorption.
If you wish to get pregnant after your bariatric surgery, you are highly advised to share the latter with your surgeon during pre-operative consultations.
Pregnancy after bariatric surgery: precautions
It is possible that a pregnant ex-patient of bariatric surgery suffer from nutritional and vitamin deficiencies. Therefore, the patient has to adopt a healthy lifestyle and request vitamin supplements from her doctor.