Obesity-related infertility affects both men and women and is increasingly recognized as a significant barrier to natural conception. Excess body weight disrupts normal hormonal regulation, impairs reproductive function, and reduces fertility potential across genders. In women, obesity interferes with ovulation and menstrual regularity, while in men it negatively affects sperm quality and hormone production.

In women, excess adipose tissue alters estrogen metabolism and worsens insulin resistance, leading to irregular ovulation or anovulation. Obesity also increases the risk of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, miscarriage, and poor maternal and fetal outcomes. These risks often make conception and pregnancy more complex and medically challenging.

In men, obesity is associated with reduced testosterone levels, increased estrogen production, impaired sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress further compromise sperm health, reducing the likelihood of successful conception.
Bariatric surgery plays a transformative role in improving fertility outcomes in individuals with obesity-related infertility. Sustained weight loss restores hormonal balance, improves insulin sensitivity, and enhances reproductive function. Women often regain regular ovulatory cycles, while men experience improvements in testosterone levels and sperm parameters.

Clinical evidence shows improved conception rates, both natural and assisted, following bariatric surgery. Importantly, weight loss before pregnancy reduces the risk of obesity-related pregnancy complications and improves maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Management includes fertility counseling as part of the bariatric care pathway. Patients are advised on appropriate timing for pregnancy following surgery, nutritional supplementation, and close medical follow-up to ensure optimal reproductive health.
By addressing obesity as a reversible cause of infertility, bariatric surgery offers patients a renewed opportunity for family planning and healthier pregnancies.