There are two schools of thought on what to do with the band during pregnancy. One is to completely empty the band of the salt water solution and let mom eat whatever she wants. The other is - if mom and baby are doing well and growing appropriately, then leave the band alone. The decision would be made in conjunction with the patient's obstetrician. I would favor the latter for the following reasons:
1. Weight loss helps a patient's fertility and the ability to become pregnant.
2. If the band is completely deflated, then mom may have uncontrolled weight gain and suffer a greater variety of health complications throughout pregnancy.
3. It is recommended that patients not become pregnant for 12-18 months after surgery so that they can attain a healthy weight. If pregnancy does occur, the band will have no negative impact on their pregnancy.
If there are issues for mom or baby (poor growth, poor weight gain, hyperemesis gravidarum, etc.), the band should be deflated completely for the duration of the pregnancy. It can be re-adjusted four weeks after delivery.
- Posted: 09/27/2012
- Categories: Wellness, Bariatric & Medical Weight Loss
- Tags: gastric band, iu health bariatrics, weight loss surgery, bariatric surgery, pregnancy and gastric band
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