Everything You Need to Know About Pregnancy after Bariatric Surgery
Pregnancy after bariatric surgery is a unique experience and there are many factors to consider before pursuing this path. This article will let you know about pregnancy after weight loss surgery. Also know more about grocery shopping after bariatric surgery.
What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a special type of weight loss surgery that deals with obesity. It’s used when a patient cannot lose weight through traditional means, like exercise or even plastic surgery and dieting. The intention is to treat the underlying causes of obesity, but they can also be performed for cosmetic reasons (following extreme weight loss) if the patient wishes, like plastic surgery.
What can you expect during pregnancy?
The most important thing to remember is that bariatric surgery does NOT prevent you from becoming pregnant. You may, however, face certain complications which include:
– Gestational diabetes
– Pre-eclampsia
– Birth defects due to the mother’s exposure to certain medications
– Delivery complications (including cesarean section)
– An increased risk for miscarriage and infant death.
How long should you wait after surgery to get pregnant?
It is advised that you wait at least 12 months after surgery to get pregnant after which, your doctor may perform an additional procedure (a vertical sleeve gastrectomy) to help prevent complications during pregnancy.
What are the risks involved during pregnancy?
The main concern is that bariatric surgery can cause your body to lose too much salt, a condition known as hyponatremia, and the complications associated with it.
Hyponatremia can cause: – Nausea or vomiting – Headaches – Confusion or drowsiness – Seizures – Temporary paralysis (often involving an arm or leg) It’s important to keep up your salt levels by drinking more water instead of increasing the amount of salt you add to your food.
When should I call my doctor?
The risk factors for hyponatremia include:
– A history of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia (seizures)
– Intrauterine growth restriction (you will be closely monitored during your pregnancy)
– A history of gestational diabetes
– Migraines that were first experienced during pregnancy (can be a sign of pre-eclampsia)
If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately!
Precaution to take for a healthy pregnancy post-bariatric surgery:
Try to maintain a healthy diet by eating foods high in calcium (milk and nuts) but low in sodium. You should also take vitamins that help with the absorption of salt while avoiding excessive water intake. It is also advised that you avoid lifting heavy loads, exercise vigorously, or have caffeine for the rest of your pregnancy Thus, you will need to be extra careful and should refrain from doing things that you normally do in the course of your daily routine.
There are more precautions for a healthy pregnancy after bariatric surgery, but the thing is this; always remember that there’s no need to be scared. It is just as important to have weight loss surgery for you and your baby’s health as it is for your own.
When it comes to pregnancy after bariatric surgery, you should always consult with a doctor. It is best to ask your doctor and bariatric surgery in Tijuana, Mexico prior to getting pregnant because, just like normal pregnancies and mothers, these patients need specialized care and attention too.
