Fertility & Weight Loss Surgery: What You Need to Know
Weight loss and fertility are closely linked, and understanding how they interact can help people make informed decisions about their surgery journey and family planning.
At one of our recent live webinars, we were lucky enough to have special guest fertility specialist, Dr Daniel Lantsberg, from Melbourne IVF join our team from Melbourne Weight Loss Solutions: A/Prof. Michael Hii (Bariatric Surgeon) and Julia Bazan (Bariatric Dietitian) to explore the link between weight loss surgery and fertility.
They shared key insights on how weight affects reproductive health and how weight loss surgery can improve fertility outcomes.
How Obesity Affects Fertility
Obesity can make it harder to conceive. It lowers fertility rates and can reduce the success of fertility treatments. However, treatment can still be effective if weight is managed properly before conception. A high BMI shouldn’t stop you from seeking fertility care - what matters most is a personalised approach that supports your unique health needs.
Obesity doesn’t just affect women—it also impacts male fertility. Being overweight can reduce sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape). Losing weight and making lifestyle changes can significantly improve sperm health, which is why it’s important for both partners to focus on overall well-being.
BMI (Body Mass Index) is often used to measure obesity, but it isn’t a perfect tool. Focusing on overall metabolic health rather than BMI alone is key. Factors like age, hormone levels, and ovarian reserve should also be considered when planning for pregnancy.
Weight Loss Surgery and Fertility Treatments
Bariatric surgery offers many benefits, including lower risks of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. However, it also comes with challenges, especially around nutrition and vitamin levels. It’s typically recommended to wait at least 12 to 18 months after surgery before trying to conceive. This gives enough time for most people to reach a stable weight, improved nutrition intake and ensures a safer pregnancy.
Monitoring Your Health Post-Surgery
After weight loss surgery, working closely with your surgical team to manage any nutritional deficiencies and prepare you for trying to conceive is important. No matter which type of surgery you’ve had, regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial when planning for pregnancy. There are some considerations specific to bariatric surgery which your team will be able to educate you on as well as provide you with tailored recommendations for your situation.
Final Thoughts: A Personalized Approach to Fertility and Weight Loss
Weight loss surgery can be a powerful tool in improving fertility, but every person’s journey is different. If you’re considering surgery, fertility treatments, or both, a personalised plan is key. The best outcomes come from collaborating with bariatric and fertility specialists to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re thinking about weight loss surgery or need guidance on managing weight for fertility, our expert team is here to help. Book a consultation today to explore your options and create a plan that works for you.
Contact us at Melbourne Weight Loss Solutions to book your consultation.
Learn more about Melbourne IVF
Key takeaways:
✅ Higher weight and weight-related conditions can reduce fertility and increase pregnancy risks, but weight management can improve outcomes.
✅ Weight loss can help regulate hormones and improve ovulation for conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and insulin resistance.
✅ It’s recommended to wait 12–18 months after weight loss surgery before trying to conceive for a healthier pregnancy.
✅ After bariatric surgery, vitamin and mineral levels must be closely monitored to support fertility and a healthy pregnancy.
✅ Male fertility matters too - Obesity affects sperm health, including count, motility, and morphology. Weight loss and lifestyle changes can improve fertility in men.
✅ The best outcomes come from collaborating with bariatric, fertility, and nutrition specialists to create a tailored plan.