According to a Swedish study, weight-loss surgery reduces the likelihood of childbirth complications, such as emergency caesarian sections, hemorrhages, tears, post-term deliveries, uterine inertia, infections, and more. It has long been established that obesity leads to more complications, and according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the US, obesity is on the rise in the pregnant population.

Between 2011 and 2015, the rate of obesity among pregnant women increased by eight percent, which may be a greater indicator of an overall growth rate of obesity in the United States.

The study itself does not establish cause and effect; however, there is enough strong evidence to suggest that women who undergo major weight loss before pregnancy will have fewer risks during their term. Studies have also shown that weight-loss surgery can also be linked to premature childbirth and small babies.

The only proven way to sustain significant weight-loss is through bariatric surgery. The advantages of bariatric surgery, particularly procedures like the laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy, is that they work with the body’s natural satiety mechanism to help the patient feel full with less food. Many procedures, like the LSG, can be revised in the case of weight gain; however, patients can experience significant weight loss (up to 75%) within the first year of their procedure.

Trying to get pregnant while overweight or obese should be carefully considered and endorsed by your doctor, as it can lead to major complications, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or heart problems. If you become pregnant, speak to your doctor about the inherent risks involved.

If you’re interested in learning more about weight-loss surgery before pregnancy, take a look at our general surgery guidelines or fill out a patient questionnaire to get started.