Pregnancy, Fertility, and Bariatric Surgery

You should wait 12 to 18 months before getting pregnant. Fertility improves significantly after surgery as a result of weight loss, even with a moderate reduction. During this period, birth control pills are less effective due to changes in your body, so we recommend using an IUD or condoms with spermicide to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.

Yes, your baby is likely to be healthy. Weight loss after surgery reduces the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Studies show that there are fewer miscarriages and other pregnancy-related issues compared to women with obesity who haven’t had surgery. However, it’s crucial to wait the recommended 12-18 months before getting pregnant.

Additionally, children born to mothers who had bariatric surgery are less likely to develop obesity later in life due to the activation of certain genes during fetal development. There’s also a lower likelihood of needing a cesarean section.