Association Between Bariatric Surgery and Breastfeeding Outcomes in Women: a Retrospective Case-Control Study

Bariatric surgery (BS) has shown promise in enhancing exclusive breastfeeding practices among women with obesity. Nevertheless, there remains a dearth of research exploring the intricate relationship between BS and breastfeeding outcomes. This study aims to investigate the potential association between bariatric surgery and exclusive breastfeeding outcomes.

Employing a retrospective case-control design, this study undertook a comprehensive comparison of women who had undergone BS and subsequently gave birth during the study period. By meticulously matching the control group (No-BS group) based on key preoperative variables such as body mass index, age, parity, and delivery year, a robust comparative analysis was established.

Participants in the BS group exhibited a significantly extended duration of exclusive breastfeeding in comparison to the No-BS group (p < 0.001). However, there were no noteworthy disparities observed in terms of breast milk production between the two groups (p > 0.05). Notably, an independent risk factor associated with diminished exclusive breastfeeding duration was identified: gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (p = 0.003).

This study furnishes valuable insights into the efficacy of bariatric surgery in extending the duration of exclusive breastfeeding among pregnant women grappling with obesity. Furthermore, our findings underscore the discernible impact of postoperative gastroesophageal reflux symptoms on the duration of exclusive breastfeeding.