My Post Op Pregnancy Story
I was only 2 months post op when I got the surprise of a lifetime! I found out I was pregnant. I could not believe it because I had tried and failed for 4 years. I had PCOS (poly cystic ovarian syndrome) and was told it would make it very difficult for me to get pregnant. Well, apparently losing the 60 or so pounds that I had lost between the pre op diet and being 2 months post op cured the PCOS and I was now as fertile as a rabbit! My surgeon and bariatric nurse did tell me I would become fertile after weight loss surgery but I took it with a grain of salt. I had tried so hard the last 4 years and was even on some fertility meds prior to the decision to have my surgery and nothing worked. I was always disheartened and disappointed with negative after negative.
At first I was worried though, I was only a few short months out of my surgery and still incorporating foods back into my diet. I didn’t know how this would affect my pregnancy or if I would be able to eat enough. I also wasn’t sure if I had ruined the potential weight loss outcome of the surgery. While you are going through all the pre-op testing and appointments the staff tells you not to get pregnant until about 18 months out of surgery because they have to by text book context. When I met with my surgeon after finding out I was pregnant he reassured me everything would be fine and that they see this happen ALL the time now. He also told me not to be alarmed because I would continue to lose weight during the pregnancy but as long as my OB is monitoring the baby’s growth and she is gaining weight I could expect a healthy pregnancy. I lost the majority of my weight during my pregnancy and my baby was on target for growth and weight the entire time – actually a few times she was a little on the larger side! I never imagined I would lose so much weight, especially while being pregnant! I have waited so long for this and it was a blessing in disguise. I had a VERY easy pregnancy, I never had the morning sickness, I didn't get pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and I didn't swell at all. I felt great my entire pregnancy. I was honestly shocked by how amazing I felt the whole time because from hearing about pregnancy from friends and family members - I fully intended on feeling like poo the whole time! I ended up having to be induced at 39 weeks 6 days because I had low fluid which had nothing to do with my Gastric Bypass. I was in a Pitocin induced labor for 8 hours which was not in my plans because I planned on doing it completely natural, but despite having to be induced I still did it without an epidural or pain meds and I'm so proud of myself for that. I only pushed 3 times and brought my beautiful baby girl into this world! Not bad for a first timer huh?
On October 8, 2012 at 8:30 PM I gave birth to a happy, healthy, beautiful baby girl :) She was 5 lbs. 15.6 oz. and 19 inches long. We named her Shiloh because it means "His gift" and she is the best gift I could've ever received. My surgery was by far the best thing I ever did because not only did it allow me to achieve my life long dream of becoming a mother but now I am healthy and will be around to watch my little girl grow up. Plus I will be able to keep up with her - chasing her all over the place haha :) I was 369 lbs last November and here I stand today, a year later & 3 weeks post baby weighing 198 lbs and I've never felt better in my life. I'm truly on cloud nine!
Congratulations! Your daughter is SO precious and you look fantastic, Mama! :)
I know all about being scared! I was a little further out when I got pregnant, but not much (only 5.5 mos post op). I haven't lost a TON of weight, but I am currently around 240 and started out the pregnancy at 265. My baby boy has been on track with growth and development the whole time, too. :)
Thank you for sharing your story! I know it would have been helpful to read early in my pregnancy when I was freaking out.
I love that you were able to have a baby and your dreams came true.
WLS does not cure PCOS for all nor does it remain on vacation. PCOS can come back from remission and be uglier than ever; this is just a warning. I thought I would be cured and able to live life as a smaller Mom. My glucose levels are crazy and I am on metformin again. I struggle everyday with the nasty booger called PCOS.
Happy and healthy journey~
