Aim: To provide an update on local current trends in bariatric surgery as well as outline the impact of bariatric surgery on fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
Discussion: Obesity is an epidemic that is the leading cause of preventable death worldwide. It affects more that 60% of Australian adults with the majority suffering from an array of comorbidities, including infertility in both males and female. This talk will outline the different forms of weight loss surgery currently available in Australia, their indication and potential complications. It will explore the pathophysiology of infertility in the obese as well as how this is reversed with weight loss, resulting in a significant increase in both spontaneous and assisted pregnancy in this patient population. Lastly, it will address current evidence relating to pregnancy outcomes. Specifically, this will address maternal complications, fetal risks and outcomes, and recommendations in perinatal care.
Conclusion: It is hoped that this will act as a comprehensive guide to assisting obese patients, both pre- and post-surgery, with their fertility journey.