How Bariatric Surgery Paved the Way to Pregnancy
September 17, 2025
Swanny Fernandez is a busy professional and a devoted mom, but for years, she faced a tough challenge — her weight. It was affecting her health, her day-to-day activities and her plans to have another baby. After trying everything she could think of and seeing little progress, Swanny decided to take a big step: bariatric surgery. The results not only improved her health but also brought her closer to the dream of expanding her family.
The Battle With Weight
“You name it, I tried it,” Swanny says, reflecting on years of being overweight.
From following strict diets to trying weight loss medications, Swanny gave it her all. But despite her efforts, the results weren’t what she hoped for. Even bending down to tie her shoes left her out of breath. And there was an even deeper heartache — her weight was standing in the way of her having another child.
Aziz Merchant, M.D., the bariatric surgeon who performed Swanny’s procedure at JFK University Medical Center, explains that difficulty in losing weight is common. It is caused by a combination of modern lifestyles that aren’t very active, an over-abundance of processed foods and many other factors.
Bariatric surgery, also known as weight-loss surgery, is the most effective and scientifically based treatment for obesity in patients with a high body mass index (BMI), explains Dr. Merchant. In addition to significant and meaningful weight loss, bariatric surgery also helps:
- Manage diabetes
- Lower high blood pressure
- Control sleep apnea
- Reduce high cholesterol
- Prevent fatty liver disease
- Cut the risk of obesity-related cancers
Making the Decision to Have Bariatric Surgery
Swanny heard about Dr. Merchant through her workplace, JFK University Medical Center. Initially skeptical, she wasn’t sure she even qualified for the surgery. But attending one of his seminars was a turning point.
Getting ready for bariatric surgery wasn’t a walk in the park. Swanny had to go through a monthslong process, from nutritionist consultations to psychological evaluations and multiple meetings with Dr. Merchant.
It tested her patience, but she knew there were good reasons behind it. It wasn’t just about the surgery; it was about making sure she was ready for the lifestyle and dietary changes that would come with it.
A Life-Changing Surgery
When the day of the surgery arrived, Swanny felt both nervous and hopeful. She gives credit to Dr. Merchant and his team for their incredible support. “They made me feel comfortable,” she says. “They pretty much held my hand throughout the entire process.” Even after the surgery, they kept checking in, answering her questions and making sure she was OK.
The post-surgery adjustments weren’t easy — Swanny had to rethink her approach to food and adapt to much smaller portions. But with determination, she made it work. And the results? “I lost a lot of weight: 83 pounds,” she says. ”I was able to do two 10Ks. And I was able to run without an issue!” Swanny’s success comes as no surprise to Dr. Merchant. “Bariatric surgery is truly the best option for patients with a high BMI,” he says. “It is time-tested.”
The Hoped-For Outcome
Perhaps the most welcome change came when Swanny fulfilled her dream of becoming pregnant again. Before the surgery, her weight had been a major obstacle to conceiving, which had taken a toll on her emotionally. But after she lost weight, everything changed.
Even with the weight gain during pregnancy, Swanny feels great and continues to embrace her healthier lifestyle. “I lost weight to achieve my goal of becoming a mom again,” she says. “I’m happy.”
Words of Wisdom for Other Potential Bariatric Surgery Patients
Looking back, Swanny appreciates everything the surgery has brought her. But she’s quick to point out that it’s not a fast or easy fix. Her advice for others? She sees two choices: You can remain overweight and maybe lose quality of life, or you can work to lose weight to live healthier and longer.
Today, Swanny is thriving — and waiting eagerly to welcome the newest member of her family.
Next Steps & Resources
- Meet our source: Aziz Merchant, M.D.
- To make an appointment to learn more about the bariatric surgical options near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
- Learn more about bariatric surgery.
The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.
