Weight Loss Surgery May Increase Risk of Low Weight Babies
Women of child-bearing age who happen to be obese are likely to hear their obstetricians say shedding pounds before conceiving is a very wise decision. After all, maternal obesity can increase the chances of having a high birth-weight baby while opening the door to a host of potential complications, including serious problems during delivery.
Women who are eligible for bariatric surgery will find this option can help them shed pounds quickly and in a lasting way. In doing so, it also reduces the risk for many pregnancy-related complications. Researchers, however, say that it could open the door on a new one women should be mindful of: low birth weight babies.
A recent study looked at babies born to women who had undergone gastric bypass procedures. The study included just under 60 newborns. A total of 23 percent were found to be small for their gestational age. Researchers also found that some of the mothers, despite the use of supplements, were deficient in such vital nutrients as zinc and calcium.
While low birth weight concerns are an improvement over the potential risks of pregnancy with obesity, the research shows moms who undergo bariatric surgery should be carefully monitored during their pregnancies. Nutritional intake and vitamin and mineral levels are a possible post-surgical concern regardless of pregnancy, but they can become even more so after the fact.
Women who undergo gastric bypasses are often advised to wait at least 18 months before trying to conceive. This timeframe enables weight to stabilize and the body to heal after surgery.
Women who are obese are urged to speak with their healthcare providers about all weight loss options. Losing weight can dramatically improve overall health while lowering the risk for many pregnancy-related complications. Bariatric surgery, such as a gastric bypass, is not necessarily the only option women may find available to help them lose weight.
Women who are eligible for bariatric surgery will find this option can help them shed pounds quickly and in a lasting way. In doing so, it also reduces the risk for many pregnancy-related complications. Researchers, however, say that it could open the door on a new one women should be mindful of: low birth weight babies.
A recent study looked at babies born to women who had undergone gastric bypass procedures. The study included just under 60 newborns. A total of 23 percent were found to be small for their gestational age. Researchers also found that some of the mothers, despite the use of supplements, were deficient in such vital nutrients as zinc and calcium.
While low birth weight concerns are an improvement over the potential risks of pregnancy with obesity, the research shows moms who undergo bariatric surgery should be carefully monitored during their pregnancies. Nutritional intake and vitamin and mineral levels are a possible post-surgical concern regardless of pregnancy, but they can become even more so after the fact.
Women who undergo gastric bypasses are often advised to wait at least 18 months before trying to conceive. This timeframe enables weight to stabilize and the body to heal after surgery.
Women who are obese are urged to speak with their healthcare providers about all weight loss options. Losing weight can dramatically improve overall health while lowering the risk for many pregnancy-related complications. Bariatric surgery, such as a gastric bypass, is not necessarily the only option women may find available to help them lose weight.
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