Infertility issues may wreak havoc on emotions and be an unexpected issue for many who are struggling with obesity. Obesity can affect hormone levels, ovulation, semen quality and reproductive health. This makes it all harder for couples who find it difficult to conceive naturally.
This is where Weight Loss Surgery or bariatric surgery comes into play. The end goal of bariatric surgery is to safely induce and maintain weight loss in a patient, but it can also positively affect fertility and the ability to conceive successfully.
How does obesity impact fertility?
Abnormal functioning of reproductive hormones can occur in men and women with obesity.
There are a few things in women that cause excess fat to gain, such as:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Ovulation problems
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Difficulty conceiving
Obesity in men can lead to:
- Reduced testosterone levels
- Lower sperm quality
- Decreased fertility
Also, being overweight may complicate the pregnancy itself with diabetes and hypertension or even miscarriage.
Is Bariatric Surgery beneficial for Fertility?
After Bariatric Surgery, many patients have an increase in their fertility. Excess weight loss can help to normalize hormone levels, improve ovulation and general reproductive health.
After surgery, women with irregular periods may find that their periods become more regular. Better insulin sensitivity is also associated with better outcomes of fertility, as is decreased inflammation.
Weight loss can have a positive impact on the quality of hormones and sperm for men, thereby positively impacting their fertility.
When Can You Get Pregnant After Bariatric Surgery?
Fertility may return relatively quickly following surgery; however, most experts suggest waiting before attempting to conceive.
Generally, wait until about 12 to 18 months following bariatric surgery to try to conceive. This will help the body to regulate following a quick weight reduction and will make certain that the baby and mother get sufficient nutrition.
Pregnancy planning at this time should always be with a health care professional.
Benefits of Pregnancy After Healthy Weight Loss
If a woman can achieve a healthier weight before becoming pregnant, there are several potential benefits:
- Better reproductive success, including higher birth rates and improved birth success
- A lowered risk of gestational diabetes.
- Reduced chances of pregnancy-induced hypertension
- Less likelihood of miscarriage
- Healthier pregnancy outcomes
- Improved maternal health overall
These benefits can help lead to a safer pregnancy journey for mother and baby.
Important Nutritional Considerations
For someone who has undergone bariatric surgery, nutrition is of prime concern. Patients might need continued surveillance of:
- Iron levels
- Vitamin B12
- Folate
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Protein intake
Pregnancy can be complicated by nutritional deficiencies, which should be addressed prior to pregnancy to allow for healthy fetal development.
Final Thoughts
Although bariatric surgery is not a fertility treatment, it can have a positive impact on factors that affect both male and female fertility. Bariatric surgery can help numerous patients achieve their family planning goals and promote sustainable weight loss, restore hormonal balance, and reduce obesity-related health risks.
If you have obesity and fertility issues, it’s important to speak with your trusted bariatric surgeon to determine if bariatric surgery is an option to help you reach a healthy weight and achieve a successful pregnancy in a future you will enjoy. Contact us
