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New Study Suggests Bariatric Surgery Can Improve Pregnancy Outcomes

Feb 21, 2023
A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology has found that women who have undergone bariatric surgery prior to pregnancy have significantly lower risks of poor pregnancy outcomes than those who are obese.

Dallas, TX – A new study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology has found that women who have undergone bariatric surgery prior to pregnancy have significantly lower risks of poor pregnancy outcomes than those who are obese.

The study looked at the effects of bariatric surgery on maternal and neonatal outcomes and compared 1,591 pregnancies in patients who had weight loss surgery with 7,955 pregnancies for patients who had not had the procedures; the two groups were demographically and medically similar and had similar body mass index (BMI) when their pregnancies began. They included patients who had different types of bariatric surgery, such as Roux-en-Y, sleeve gastrectomy, and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding.

The results showed that women who had undergone bariatric surgery prior to pregnancy were less likely to experience preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and a large gestational age baby. These are all pregnancy concerns that should be considered. Preeclampsia is a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure; gestational diabetes puts the baby at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life; and there are certain risk factors and obstetric complications for children born large for gestational age. This suggests that having bariatric surgery may reduce the risk of complications during delivery as well as improve overall health for both mother and baby during pregnancy. There were no differences between the groups in preterm birth, gestational hypertension or caesarean delivery.

“This study adds to the growing evidence that bariatric surgery can improve a woman’s health before and during pregnancy,” said Dr. Nick Nicholson of Nicholson Clinic for Weight Loss Surgery in Dallas, Texas. “At Nicholson Clinic, we offer a range of bariatric procedures including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy and adjustable gastric banding (LAP-BAND). We believe that these procedures can help improve pregnancy outcomes for our patients.”

In addition to reducing risks associated with pregnancy, Dr. Nicholson noted that bariatric surgery can also help people achieve long-term weight loss success by making it easier to maintain healthy eating habits and exercise routines after childbirth. “Bariatric surgery is an effective tool for helping people achieve significant weight loss and keep it off long-term,” he said in a statement about the findings of this study.

Nicholson Clinic understands how important it is for pregnant women to have healthy pregnancies and deliveries. That’s why they offer comprehensive weight loss solutions tailored specifically towards each patient’s needs so they can achieve optimal health before conception as well as during their pregnancies.

At the Nicholson Clinic, Dr. Nicholson and his staff offers comprehensive care for individuals considering or undergoing weight loss surgery including pre-operative education, post-operative support groups, nutrition counseling services, physical activity recommendations, lifestyle coaching services and more — all designed to help patients achieve their goals safely and effectively while providing them with ongoing support throughout their journey towards better health and wellness after bariatric surgery.

To learn more about their services please visit nicholsonclinic.com or call them at 972-494-3100 today!

About Nicholson Clinic
One of the most experienced weight loss surgeons in the country – Dr. Nick Nicholson – along with a full staff of surgeons, physician assistants, and other experienced clinicians, help patients reverse obesity with Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, Duodenal Switch, LAP-BAND, Gastric Balloon and Revisions.