However, the recommendation is that women try to lose weight in a healthy way, through exercise and a proper diet, reducing the number of calories consumed daily. Medical specialists in the field point out that the only ways to reduce severe obesity are either a radical change in lifestyle that brings significant results to a woman’s life or through bariatric surgery.
They also warn that after the surgical procedure, women should wait an average period of 12 to 18 months before trying to become pregnant. The body needs this time for nutritional balance to be restored so as not to jeopardize the baby’s health. Prof. Adam Balen, the article’s lead author, states: “Our research affirms that weight loss surgery improves fertility in obese women, but we believe this procedure should only be done as a last option, after other means such as lifestyle and habit changes have not worked.”
“Like any other surgery, bariatric surgery has significant risks of complications and a radical change in habits is necessary after the procedure.”
Prof. Balen also adds that the best thing a woman can do is reach her ideal weight in a healthy way so she can get pregnant naturally. The surgery also helps women who suffer from the symptoms of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), which can have a major impact on fertility by reducing ovulation and causing hormonal changes. However, they warn that women who have had the procedure have higher risks of preterm birth and giving birth to small babies.
Sadaf Ghaem-Maghami, president of the Scientific Advisory Committee responsible for the research, states: Like any other surgical procedure, bariatric surgery carries risks of venous thrombosis, infection, hernia, and especially protein malnutrition.
See also: Female Orgasm Makes Getting Pregnant Easier!
Photo: Butz.2013
