Maintaining a healthy weight and following a proper diet are known to help prevent many illnesses and diseases, but excess weight can also affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant.
That’s why Wake Forest Baptist Health has developed a specialized weight loss program - the first of its kind in the region - designed to help women safely lose weight so they can conceive more easily and have a healthier pregnancy.
“Losing weight can not only make it easier for women to become pregnant, but it can also reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, which can cause complications at birth,” said Jeffrey Deaton, M.D., associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology and director of Wake Forest Baptist’s Center for Fertility, Endocrinology and Menopause.
A multidisciplinary team, consisting of experts in obesity medicine, fertility, nutrition, exercise and behavior modification, creates individualized plans for each patient. Women with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 50 may also benefit from a consultation with one of Wake Forest Baptist’s maternal-fetal medicine experts, who specialize in caring for women who are overweight and obese during pregnancy.
“Since we know that a woman’s BMI can have a profound effect on their fertility, this program helps provide safe and quick weight loss,” said Jamy Ard, M.D., director of Wake Forest Baptist’s Weight Management Center.
The program combines in-person visits with virtual visits, which allow patients to conveniently interact with their health care provider by using a mobile device or computer.
People who want to learn more about the program can call 336-716-6099, option 1.