Women should wait 18 months after weight loss surgery before
becoming pregnant. This is the timeframe when you will experience
the biggest amount of weight loss, and it is the most challenging
time to meet your own nutritional needs.
If you fall pregnant during this period of rapid weight loss, you will
deprive a growing baby of important nutrients, leading to low birth
weight, and potential malnutrition for you and your baby.
By 18 months, you should have reached a stable weight and be
able to provide your baby with enough nutrition.
Most surgeons advise women of childbearing age to use reliable
contraception during this waiting period, as having an unplanned
pregnancy is a very real possibility.
You should wait 18 months before getting
pregnant
You will need to monitor your nutrient intake
closely
Even 18 months after your surgery, nutritional deficiencies can be
a problem during pregnancy. This may be worsened if you suffer
nausea or morning sickness, which may prevent you from eating. If
this is the case you should speak with your Doctor or Midwife about
anti-nausea medicines that are safe to take when pregnant.
It is important you pay careful attention to vitamins and minerals
both before and during your pregnancy to keep you and your baby
well. The most common deficiencies during pregnancy are:
• Folic acid
• Vitamin B12
• Iron
• Calcium
• Vitamin D
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