Our Summary

This research paper looks at the link between obesity and sexual dysfunction (SD) - or problems with sexual health - which is often not considered when discussing the health problems related to obesity. The authors reviewed various studies and found that bariatric surgery, a type of surgery to help lose weight, can also help with SD in both men and women. After the surgery, more patients reported improvements in their sexual health. The paper suggests that future studies should include measures of sexual health in their overall assessments of life enjoyment. This could provide a more complete picture of the benefits of weight loss surgery, beyond just physical health improvements.

FAQs

  1. Does the research paper find a connection between obesity and sexual dysfunction?
  2. Can bariatric surgery help in improving sexual dysfunction in both men and women?
  3. Why does the research paper suggest future studies include measures of sexual health in their assessments of life enjoyment after weight loss surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about obesity surgery is to follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly to maintain weight loss and improve overall health outcomes. It is important to continue monitoring your weight, eating habits, and physical activity even after surgery to ensure long-term success. Additionally, attending regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider can help address any concerns or complications that may arise post-surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended obesity surgery include those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher, or a BMI of 35 or higher with obesity-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea. These patients have often tried other methods of weight loss, such as diet and exercise, without success and are at a high risk for obesity-related complications. Additionally, patients who have a BMI of 30 or higher with significant comorbidities may also be considered for obesity surgery. It is important for patients to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if they are suitable candidates for obesity surgery.

Timeline

Before obesity surgery:

  • Patient consults with a healthcare provider to discuss weight loss options and determine if surgery is the best option
  • Patient undergoes medical evaluations, screenings, and tests to assess their overall health and readiness for surgery
  • Patient may be required to participate in a pre-operative weight loss program to prepare for surgery
  • Patient meets with a surgeon to discuss the procedure, risks, benefits, and expectations

After obesity surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may be laparoscopic or open surgery depending on the specific type of bariatric surgery chosen
  • Patient stays in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery
  • Patient follows a strict post-operative diet and exercise plan to support weight loss and prevent complications
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments with their healthcare team to monitor progress, address any issues, and make adjustments to their treatment plan as needed
  • Over time, patient experiences weight loss and improvements in overall health, including potentially improvements in sexual dysfunction as shown in the research paper cited
  • Patient may also experience changes in body image, self-esteem, and quality of life as a result of the weight loss and improved health status.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the different types of obesity surgery options available and which one would be most suitable for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with obesity surgery?
  3. How much weight can I expect to lose after the surgery and what are the long-term outcomes?
  4. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet and exercise regimen after the surgery?
  5. How will the surgery affect my overall health and well-being, including any potential improvements in other health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure?
  6. How will the surgery impact my ability to have children or affect my reproductive health?
  7. What are the potential impacts on my mental health and emotional well-being after the surgery?
  8. Will I need to take any medications or supplements after the surgery to support my weight loss and overall health?
  9. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery and what kind of support will be available to me?
  10. Are there any specific considerations or precautions I should be aware of before and after the surgery, particularly in relation to sexual health and dysfunction?

Reference

Authors: Wingfield LR, Kulendran M, Laws G, Chahal H, Scholtz S, Purkayastha S. Journal: Obes Surg. 2016 Feb;26(2):387-94. doi: 10.1007/s11695-015-1937-7. PMID: 26487651