It is clear that whilst most women are aware of the recommendations regarding pregnancy and contraception following bariatric surgery, many do not heed them. Various forms of contraception are available after weight loss surgery, and choice of method should take into account a range of personal factors including long and ​short term requirements, future plans for pregnancy, sexual health risks, age, overall health, use of other medications, efficacy and convenience.

There are various recommendations regarding the timing of planned pregnancy after weight loss surgery which are based on a theoretical understanding of what occurs after the operation. A truly controlled scientific study evaluating the risk and benefit of pregnancy after surgical weight loss is difficult to design. We employ a common sense approach based on surgical literature as well as an understanding of the changes that occur after surgical operations for weight loss.

If you are thinking about bariatric surgery and have doubts about whether it is right for you, you’re not alone. It’s a life-changing decision, and serious contemplation—particularly overcoming concerns and learning how to effectively cope with them—is part of the decision-making process for everyone. Bariatric surgery is a major procedure, and recovery doesn’t happen overnight. It’s normal and natural to fear surgery, anesthesia, or physical changes. Before you let these fears prevent you from having bariatric surgery, you may want to take a few moments to better understand the facts. Bariatric surgery is a lifelong change. Even considering it is a healthy step, because it gives you an opportunity to examine your health and your life.

Bariatric surgery requires a change in the way that you think about food, dieting and exercise. Although there are definite physiological changes that occur after surgery and that will help you lose weight, it is important that you realize the need to change your environment and some of your previous lifestyle choices. Although the operations change the way in which your body processes food, some of these changes are only temporary. It is important that you start life-affirming habits that will help you succeed.

Digestion is a complex process and the objective of the entire process is to provide energy for sustenance of the human body. The human digestive system consists of the digestive tract and other organs that are necessary for the digestion of food, absorption of nutrients, and elimination of waste.

Significant weight loss can sometimes cure and almost always decrease the risks of developing secondary conditions related to obesity which include, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and the pressure and pains that accompany supporting excess weight. As a result of weight loss and positive lifestyle changes, you can be better prepared to engage in the physical activities of daily living, improve your mobility and appearance, and extend your years of healthy living with your family and loved ones.

Welcome to the first step in your consideration of weight loss surgery with Dr. Belsley at Mt. Sinai St. Luke’s Hospital Center. We understand that you have a choice in your medical care and will do his best to answer your questions and ensure you a safe, personalized and individual experience throughout your weight loss. You must continue on your new path as it is one that you must walk for the rest of your life. Please keep in mind that bariatric surgery requires continuing positive lifestyle change and is not a substitute for dieting.