Vidhi Jain
Bariatric Dietician & Content Writer
Bariatric Surgery During Pregnancy: Should It Be Recommended?
Safety concerns
Pregnancy is a complex physiological process. It involves significant changes in the hormonal levels, metabolism and nutrient requirements to support the growth and development of the foetus. When considering bariatric surgery during pregnancy, there are several factors that must be carefully evaluated to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the unborn child.
Impact on mother and foetal development
Bariatric surgery can introduce a variety of potential risks and concerns for pregnant women. One primary concern is that it might result in nutritional deficiencies. During pregnancy, these nutrient deficiencies can pose serious risks to both the mother and the developing foetus.
Additionally weight loss associated with bariatric surgery can result in the release of stored fat-soluble toxins into the bloodstream. These toxins can cross the placenta and harm the developing foetus.
The decision to undergo bariatric surgery during pregnancy is a complex decision and should be approached with care and diligence.
Timing and planning
Most medical professionals recommend that women wait at least 12 to 18 months after bariatric surgery before attempting pregnancy. This period allows the body to stabilise, ensures adequate weight loss and allows optimization of nutritional status.
However every pregnancy is unique and the decision-making process should involve collaboration between the patient and the bariatric surgeon considering various factors such as the woman’s overall health, weight loss progress and nutritional status.
Potential benefits
For women who have previously undergone bariatric surgery and are now considering pregnancy. Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is crucial, as excessive weight gain can pose risk to both the mother and the baby. Bariatric surgery can provide a foundation of weight management and reduce the likelihood of complications associated with obesity during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Bariatric surgery during pregnancy is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits. Weight loss surgery can be an effective tool for managing severe obesity, it is generally recommended to avoid Bariatric surgery during pregnancy due to safety concerns and potential risks to both the mother and the developing foetus.
The health and well-being of both the mother and the foetus should be the primary focus, and decisions should be made on an individual basis, taking into account all relevant factors.
Aastha Bariatrics provides comprehensive guidance and counselling for individuals considering bariatric surgery. Dr. Manish Motwani, the leading Bariatric surgeon along with his experienced team of healthcare professionals understands the complexities involved and offers personalised support and ensures the safety and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby.
The above list of reasons imply the people who are not eligible for undergoing bariatric surgery. In such a case, it is important to consult with your bariatric surgeon or dietitian to understand which specific eligibility criteria you may have failed to fulfil.
The above reasons mentioned does not mean that you are not suitable for the surgery. If any of the following items apply to you are disqualified from the surgery. It is just that you are in a higher risk category than someone else.
If the surgery is likely to endanger your health or the long term health risks outweigh the benefits then you will not be considered.
When deciding upon the suitability, your health comes first and your surgeon will consider the risks posed by excessive weight gain against the surgery. Aastha Bariatrics which is a centre of excellence for bariatric and metabolic surgery, takes immense care of the patients and also guides them throughout the bariatric surgery procedure. Dr. Manish Motwani is one of the best bariatric surgeons in India with 26 Years Experience Overall. No post surgery complications have been experienced by patients from the last 15 years. We have one of the best teams, who are highly specialised in weight loss and obesity. Our experts will work with you to determine what is best for you.
