The Korean Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (KSMBS) Position Statement on Female Candidates of Reproductive Age for Metabolic Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Obesity has emerged as a major global health issue. The ratio of male to female patients undergoing metabolic bariatric surgery (MBS) is 1:3.5. Although not as dramatic compared to the global trend, the rate of obesity in women of reproductive age in Korea has been steadily increasing over the past several decades. The impact of obesity on reproductive health and perinatal outcomes should be carefully considered when consulting female candidates of reproductive age for MBS. Obesity adversely affects reproductive health by causing menstrual irregularities, anovulation, subfertility, and increased miscarriage risk, as well as impairing the success of assisted reproductive technologies. Maternal obesity also heightens the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, including childhood obesity and metabolic disorders. MBS has been shown to improve fertility outcomes and reduce obesity-related pregnancy complications, although concerns remain regarding potential risks such as small-for-gestational-age infants due to rapid weight loss and nutritional deficiencies. Despite these implications, current MBS guidelines rarely address the unique needs of reproductive-age women. In response, the Korean Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery convened a task force to develop evidence-based recommendations tailored to this population. This position statement aims to guide the management of obesity in women of reproductive age to optimize reproductive and perinatal outcomes.