Pregnancy Post-op? ((anyone have relevant info?))

[MsJacquiiC]

Earlier yesterday there was a brief conversation in the chatbox about pregnancy. Apparently a Member was told by her prospective surgeon that pregnancy after WLS was not possible. All the info that I've been given and researched is a direct contradiction, as even the few articles I've posted here at The Journey say that pregnancy is very possible. We actually discussed this in my pre-op classes. There was more than a few conversations about the increased fertility rate amongst female post-ops.

Anyway - does anyone have any experience with pregnancy after WLS?

Jacquii.

A few links to articles I've posted...
An unintended consequence of weight-loss surgery: unplanned pregnancy
Obesity surgery?s benefits extend to next generation
4 ways weight loss can enhance your sex life

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Edited to add BariatricTV video.
I was told on Facebook that BariatricTV just had an episode regarding pregnancy after WLS. The part about pregnancy begins about mid-video at minute 6:29

[choochfull]

I had the bypass, and never even thought about getting pregnant. I had always been so big it was never an option. Knew i would have to think about contraception at some point when lost some weight. Never considered it would be quite so soon, got pregnant at 5 months. Sooooo glad i did. i don't think i ever would have decided to get pregnant, but now it is the best thing that ever could have happened.

[MsJacquiiC]

Congratulations Nicola! And welcome to the community. So you had a little boy or little girl?

Also - I was just thinking the same thing about contraception - because I was told at my pre-op classes that if any women on the pill might have to take extra precaution. And that like vitamins in food - you might not be able to absorb the hormone in "the pill"

[NicInTheER]

I found out I was pregnant a few days shy of my 1 year post-op anniversary. I had no complications related to my lap-band. I did not have to have the fluid removed from my band. I never felt as if I couldn't eat because of restriction, it was almost as if I had no restriction througout the whole pregnancy. I delivered a very healthy 7lb. 4oz. baby girl almost 2 weeks early. She is now 16 months old and doing great. I gained about 17 pounds with my pregnancy and lost it all within a few weeks of delivery.
I can't imagine a doctor or anyone saying that you can not get pregnant after surgery. I know my doctor said to wait at least a year post-op. In my opinion if you are healthy and you have discussed it with both your surgeon and your OB/GYN and they say there is no problem, then go for it. Just make sure you meet with a dietician to discuss anything about your diet that may need to be adjusted to help with making sure the baby and you get what you need to thrive during pregnancy.
Feel free to reply to me and ask me any questions.

Gastric Banding Surgery The adjustable gastric banding is a restrictive surgical procedure during which a silicone band is placed around the stomach, creating a small pouch. The band includes a balloon that is filled with a nontoxic fluid, most commonly a saline solution; periodic adjustments are performed by a healthcare professional who accesses the balloon via a subcutaneous port. Gastric band placement, unlike malabsorptive weight loss surgery (e.g. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, Biliopancreatic Diversion, and Duodenal Switch), does not cut or remove any part of the digestive system. See WLS Videos for animated surgery technique.

Registered Dietitian A dietitian is an expert in food and nutrition; A person who has studied diet and nutrition at a college program approved by the American Dietetic Association, completed 900 hours of supervised practical experience accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation for Dietetics Education, and passed an exam to become an R.D. Dietitians help promote good health through proper eating. They also supervise the preparation and service of food, develop modified diets, participate in research, and educate individuals and groups on good nutritional habits. The term "nutritionist" is also widely used; however, the term nutritionist is not regulated as dietitian is. People may call themselves nutritionists without the educational and professional requirements of registered dietitians.

[MsJacquiiC]

Thanks for the info Nicole and welcome to The Journey! Feel free to introduce yourself via the Howdy Hi Introductions section.

I'm so glad you ladies could dispell what that doctor told Kristinamarie.

I've just edited the 1st post to include a recent BariatricTV episode that deals with pregnancy after weight loss surgery. Some of the points they hit on:

• Weight loss surgery can produce a sudden positive change in your fertility.
• If you do want to get pregnant, you should wait at least 18 months post surgery.
• Make sure your doctor monitors you nutrition and vitamin levels carefully.
• You may have to battle body image issues while growing more and more pregnant.
• Be sure your doctor is aware of your special needs and your weight loss surgery.

Jacquii.

[choochfull]

I had a little girl called ruby rose, she is soooo delightfull, the very last thing i wanted from my op, but the very best thing that has come of it! I will say though that it has put a stop to my weight lose, i put on half a stone when i was pregnant and lost 3 and half in three weeks of having her, after that though have stayed the same, so i'm still 23 stone now, but i have lost 11.

[MsJacquiiC]

Aw! Little Ruby Rose = how precious! You'll have to help with the weight conversion because I have no idea how many pounds a stone is... I suppose I should google LOL

Anyway - welcome again to the community Girl. Do feel free to introduce yourself via the Howdy Hi Introductions section

Jacquii.