Question:
How common are multiple births after WLS?

I am 13 months post RNY and found out that I am 5 weeks pregnant. I have lost 174 lbs. My husband and I have been together for 10 years with no luck of conception. I decided to come off birth control Jan. 1st. WOW a couple of weeks later, we are expecting. Everyone says that the baby is probably twins(which would be wonderful) because I have had an RNY. Does WLS increase the risk of twins or triplets?    — mary_rn (posted on February 18, 2009)

February 18, 2009
Congratulations! As far as the multiples birth, I've never heard that WLS increases that chance. But I have read that formerly obese women who lose significantly conceive more easily after WLS. I think your chances of conceiving are increased because of being within a normal weight range which reduces or eliminates the former menstrual or ovulation irregularities often caused by excess weight. I don't know if you're hoping for multiples but I wish you the very best. I had a friend who had RNY, lost 120#, and SURPRISE!....became pregnant within a month of reaching her goal weight. She had to take double the amount of pre-natal vitamins and watch her diet carefully to ensure she consumed adequate nutrition for her & the fetus. It all worked out wonderful. She had a gorgeous baby boy; he weighed around 6 lbs as I recall and she didn't look like she'd even been pregnant. Good luck on your newest and joyous journey yet!
   — Arkin10

February 18, 2009
I have never heard that RNY would increase the possibility of multiples. What does, however, is family history, but most of all, if you're over 35, you have an increased chance of releasing more than one egg. That happens more often as you approach the end of your ovulating years. I have dealt with a lot of infertility issues in my life, therefore I've learned a lot about it. I had a son, in 2004, prior to WLS, and mostly due to taking metformin for a condition called PCOS, where I didn't ovulate and metformin kicked my cycles back into gear. We conceived after years and years of trying, and after many attempts with fertility treatments. Just enjoy your blessing and keep in close contact with all of your medical professionals...such as your WLS surgeon's office, and your OB/GYN. Being pregnant was the most wonderful thing for me. It didn't last long though...as my son came 10 weeks early due to high blood pressure issues for me. I was well over 275 pounds though. If I was lucky enough...and young enough (I'm over 41) to conceive now...I'd be so happy at this weight...and WAY more healthy. Enjoy and Congrats on all the blessings in your life! Hugs....Cheryl
   — Cheryl K.

February 18, 2009
Who is "everyone"? There is no scientific eveidence that WLS will increase the chance of multiples. You will know for sure when you go to the doctor. Certain blood test can indicate the possibilities of multiples but it can only be confirmed after a sonogram several months into the pregnancy. Good luck with your pregnancy and only listen to your healthcare professionals. People tend to say many things that are not true even if they have the best intentions at heart.
   — maria09elena