Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric (gastric bypass) surgery can contribute to nutrition-related complications. Persistent vomiting may occur when food intake is not appropriately reduced or when food is not chewed well or is eaten too quickly. For women with an adjustable gastric band, the fluid in the band may be reduced to decrease vomiting.

Dumping syndrome is another common complication of bariatric surgery; the amount of glucose used to screen for gestational diabetes is enough to cause dumping syndrome. Micronutrient deficiencies are another potential complication, especially for women who have had the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Nutrients of particular concern are iron, vitamin B12, folate, and calcium. Healthy weight gain during and after pregnancy should also be carefully considered. (Woodard, 2004)