I’m 36 with PCOS. Is bariatric surgery a safe option for me?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 36-year-old woman who has struggled with obesity since my teenage years. My body mass index is 41, and I also have insulin resistance and irregular menstrual periods suggestive of polycystic ovary syndrome. Despite following diet plans and exercising regularly, I have not been able to lose weight effectively.

My doctor has suggested weight-loss medications and possibly bariatric surgery, but I am hesitant. How safe are these treatments for women, and will they help with both weight loss and hormonal balance? Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I can understand your concern.

Bariatric surgery, which is a procedure that reduces stomach size or alters digestion to promote weight loss, is usually the last option that doctors recommend, after all conservative management approaches have been tried and have not given satisfactory results. In your case, this suggests obesity (a medical condition marked by excessive body fat that increases the risk of health problems) that is not getting controlled easily.

You can try medications first under the supervision of a doctor for a few months to see how your body responds. However, it is also important to follow a strict diet according to your symptoms and body type, as this helps the medications work more effectively. Along with this, lifestyle modification plays a very important role and should be followed carefully.

Maintaining a proper sleep–wake cycle supports overall health and metabolism. Adding some natural breathing practices can help reduce stress levels, which often influence weight gain. A regular physical activity routine is equally important. To begin with, cardiovascular exercises, staying active during the day, and taking frequent exercise breaks can make a meaningful difference. Including adequate water intake before and after meals is also essential. Eating five small meals a day that are high in protein and fiber, along with all other necessary nutrients, helps improve satiety and metabolic balance.

Consult your doctor to start medications at a low dose and review the results within a few weeks. Believe in yourself and keep surgery as the last option if these measures do not work.

Probable causes include family history and inactivity.

I hope this helps you.

Kindly revert if there are any queries.

Thank you.