robincook.org.uk

The number of weight loss surgeries performed every year have grown tremendously. Women make about 80% of the total weight loss procedures. The age range in which the women are going through bariatric surgery is 18 to 45 years. A lot of women who are of the reproductive age ask the question that when they should attempt pregnancy if they want to go through the weight loss surgery.

This is a very important question. The answer to this question depends on the weight loss procedure that you are going through. If you are undergoing gastric band surgery, then that means you can safely attempt pregnancy after a period of six months. On the other hand if you are going through invasive procedures such as gastric bypass, gastric sleeve or duodenal switch procedures, then it would be advisable that you wait for a period of at least two years.

After the invasive surgeries as mentioned above, there is an increased amount of weight loss. With more invasive procedures, the weight loss occurs for a longer duration of time. Therefore it is advisable that women who are undergoing the invasive weight loss surgeries must not attempt to become pregnant for at least two years. This is also known as the safe period.

A lot of woman ask whether they would have to undergo C-section after having weight loss surgery. Women undergoing the invasive weight loss surgery normally do not need to undergo through C-section, but it is important that they talk with their gynecologist/obstetrician to know what will be best for them and should also let them know about their decision as well.

Note: Please consult your physician before attempting pregnancy.