Patient Education Bariatric Surgery Patient Education | Page 19

Pregnancy after Bariatric Surgery
It’s possible to have a safe and healthy pregnancy after bariatric surgery.
In fact, some research suggests that pregnancy after weight-loss surgery
might be safer for both mother and baby than pregnancy complicated by
obesity.
Timing is important, however. It’s best to avoid pregnancy after weight-loss
surgery until your weight is stable and it has been at least 2 years since
your surgery. Rapid or persistent weight loss might deprive a growing baby
of important nutrients, leading to low birth weight and problems.
If you’ve had weight-loss surgery and are considering pregnancy, talk
with your health care provider before becoming pregnant so you can plan
ahead. Depending on the type of weight loss surgery and your specific
nutritional needs, your health care provider might recommend certain
nutritional supplements, such as folic acid, vitamin B-12, vitamin D, iron
and calcium, in addition to a daily prenatal vitamin before and during
pregnancy.
You might also consult a registered dietitian for advice on nutrition and
weight gain during pregnancy.
Hair Loss After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery can result in rapid weight loss, which can place the
body under physical stress. Most people notice changes in their hair after
bariatric surgery, from a dull and lifeless appearance to actual hair loss.
Because the body does not get the nutrients it needs through diet alone, it
sends hair into a resting phase in order to save nutrients for vital organs.
Any hair loss is usually temporary. Protein supplements, snacks and shakes
may help reduce hair loss after surgery, but almost everyone experiences
some hair loss.
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