Bariatric Surgery & high chance of pregnancy

Are you planning to get pregnant after your bariatric surgery? Your chances have just increased. Bariatric surgery not only helps you lose weight but also doubles your possibility of getting pregnant, says Dr. Mainak Pal, a bariatric surgery doctor in Kolkata. 

Post-surgery, there is a sudden boost in your fertility. The weight that you lose after the surgery corrects reproductive and metabolic abnormalities. It also lowers the chances of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia during pregnancy.

However, there are certain things that you should keep in mind before conceiving to enjoy a healthy pregnancy.

Three Things to Consider

  • Nutritional Balance – At the post-surgery weight-loss period, your body goes through significant nutritional changes. Calcium, Vitamin B12, iron, and Vitamin D are the most common nutritional deficiencies after bariatric surgery. This upheaval of nutrients can be problematic for your baby. Therefore, “It is best if you wait until 18 months after surgery before conceiving”, says Dr. Mainak Pal. Research shows that your body will stabilize and be in a better position to provide the necessary nutrients to your baby by this period.

However, in some cases, nutritional deficiencies can develop during pregnancy too. Consult your bariatric surgeon and a nutritionist about your physical condition and ask for a healthy diet plan to compensate for any nutritional deficiency post-surgery.

  • Stable Weight – The rapid weight loss you will go through after the surgery causes hormonal changes in the body. It is in the first 18 months after surgery when the kilos shed off rapidly. Getting pregnant during this period can result in premature birth. Wait out this period before planning pregnancy.
  • Be mentally prepared – You invested a lot of time and attention to the idea of losing weight and went through with bariatric surgery. Therefore, it is normal to feel nervous and stressed that you would gain weight during your pregnancy. Consult an obstetrician who has experience dealing with weight loss surgery patients. They will guide you through the process and make you mentally and emotionally ready to deal with your weight gain during pregnancy.

What should you do in these 18 months?

  • Check your Vitamins – Check your vitamin levels periodically and adjust your diet accordingly to ensure that it does not dip further than the usual amount.
  • Diet is the most significant element after your weight loss surgery. Consult a nutritionist and prepare a healthy diet plan to ensure that you do not suffer from any nutritional deficiency.
  • Stay Active – It is essential to stay active after your weight loss surgery. Pick any light workout routine you would be comfortable with and try to follow it every day.

If your obesity is taking a toll on your health and lifestyle, consult Dr. Mainak Pal, the best bariatric surgeon in Kolkata. He takes a comprehensive approach towards treating women who are looking to get pregnant after weight loss surgery.