Bariatric surgery is a life-changing surgical procedure that will alter your digestive system. Most of the time, bariatric surgeons do not recommend those who go through the procedure to become pregnant too soon, as it can become a risk for both the child and the mother. However, it is not uncommon. Here are some factors you should know.
What Studies Show About Bariatric Surgery And Pregnancy
When it comes to pregnancy after bariatric surgery, it is important to recognize that there is a high risk of increased fertility after weight loss begins. Studies reported in the National Library of Medicine have found a link between weight loss and increased fertility, often due to higher levels of sex hormones as well as a reduction in polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that could limit fertility in some people.
Medical Practitioners Warn
While some women may find that getting pregnant after bariatric surgery is easier to do, doctors warn against it. Specifically, the concern is that getting pregnant too soon after weight loss surgery may mean the child may not get the nutrients it needs to grow and develop fully and properly due to the seriously reduced calorie and nutrient intake of someone who just had surgery.
When Can a Person Get Pregnant After Bariatric Surgery?
The National Institutes of Health urges women not to get pregnant after bariatric surgery for at least 1 to 2 years. The first 12 to 18 months is likely to mean significant weight loss, which can impact the child’s ability to get the nutrients necessary to grow.
In situations where a woman does get pregnant early on, it is critical that she work closely with both her bariatric surgeons as well as receive exceptional maternity care to minimize any risk to the child and to reduce the risk of injuries or complications throughout the pregnancy.
Following your doctor’s guidelines after bariatric surgery helps ensure you get the best possible results after having the procedure, but it also can help to minimize complications during your pregnancy as well as those to your unborn child.
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