PREGNANCY AFTER
BARIATRIC SURGERY
You will need to wait 18 – 24 months after bariatric surgery before trying to conceive so that the fetus
is not affected by the rapid maternal weight loss. After bariatric surgery your chances of conceiving
are increased so adequate contraception needs to be put in place for the 18 – 24 month period after
your surgery. The risk of oral contraceptive failure is also increased post bariatric surgery, so non-oral
contraceptives should be considered.
Vitamin deficiencies are very common post-bariatric surgery. Protein, Iron, Folate, Calcium, and
vitamins B12 and D are the most common nutrient deficiencies after gastric bypass surgery. Nutrient
deficiencies can also occur after restrictive surgical procedures, such as adjustable gastric banding,
because of decreased food intake or food intolerances. It may be extra difficult to get the nutrients you
need during pregnancy because of nausea, a common post-surgery complication that morning
sickness can exacerbate. You should be tested for any deficiencies at the beginning of your
pregnancy and a complete blood count and measurement of Iron, Ferritin, Calcium, and vitamin D
levels every trimester should be considered. Make sure you inform your obstetrician of your bariatric
surgery.
Because of the risk of delayed post-operative complications, gastrointestinal problems that are
common in pregnancy (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain) require thorough evaluation in women who
have undergone bariatric surgery.
Your bariatric surgery should not affect the management of your labour and delivery. Although rates
of caesarean delivery are higher in women who have had bariatric surgery, it is not an indication for
caesarean delivery.
Gastro Intestinal and Soft Tissue Clinic
Greenslopes Private Hospital