The Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Female Fertility: A Narrative Review Article

Background: /Objectives: Obesity is a growing global health concern with significant implications for female reproductive health, notably contributing to menstrual irregu-larities, anovulation, and infertility. This review explores the relationship between fe-male obesity and reproductive dysfunction, with a particular focus on the impact of bariatric surgery on fertility outcomes. Methods: Drawing from 116 original research studies, the analysis examines the two bariatric surgical techniques, sleeve gastrecto-my (SG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), and their effects on weight loss, hor-monal profiles, ovulatory function, and conception rates. Conclusions: Results con-sistently demonstrate improvements in menstrual regularity, resolution of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms, including improved insulin sensitivity and re-duced hyperandrogenism, increased spontaneous ovulation and enhanced fertility following significant post-surgical weight reduction. Additionally, timing of pregnan-cy after surgery, type of surgical intervention, and degree of weight loss are identified as critical determinants of reproductive success. The review also addresses gaps in long-term data and emphasizes the need for individualized preconception counseling in women with obesity pursuing fertility.