Obesity is a significant concern in the United States. According to the National Library of Medicine, about 80 percent of weight loss surgeries, also known as bariatric surgeries, are done on women. The majority of these women are still in the child-bearing stage of life. Women who have had such surgery should know that pregnancy still is possible, and it is considered safe as long as it is planned properly.
Step 1
Use birth control until you are ready to conceive. The National Library of Medicine states that it is likely that fertility will improve as you lose weight after your surgery. So use a reliable birth control method until it is safe for you to conceive.
Step 2
Wait an appropriate amount of time after your surgery to try to get pregnant. The Mayo Clinic recommends waiting 12 to 18 months after the surgery to try to conceive. This is the amount of time it takes for your weight to stabilize post-surgery.
Step 3
Have a complete physical prior to trying to conceive. Let your doctor know that you are trying to determine the appropriateness of pregnancy.
Step 4
Eat a healthy diet. Most women have nutritional deficiencies after weight loss surgery; however, it is crucial to get your levels of all nutrients up to an acceptable level before trying to conceive. You might need blood work done to check the levels of nutrients in your body.
Step 5
Find a nutritionist who specializes in post-bariatric surgery care. You will need your nutritionist to help develop an eating plan that will work throughout your pregnancy. She might recommend that you take special vitamins and mineral supplements to get the nutrients you and your baby will need.
Step 6
Speak to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the pregnancy. Depending upon the specifics of your bariatric surgery, you may have to deliver your baby via Cesarean section. You also could be at an increased risk for miscarriage and other complications. After talking with your doctor, decide if you are prepared to deal with those risks.
Member Comments