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a The Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, The University of Sheffield and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, United Kingdom
Key Words: obesity • female reproduction • IVF • miscarriage • antiobesity drugs • bariatric surgery
Address for correspondence: Mostafa Metwally, The Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine. The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 4ED, UK. Fax: +44-114-226-8052. m.metwally{at}sheffield.ac.uk
Obesity is a growing worldwide problem and is associated with a wide range of adverse effects on the female reproductive system. The endocrinological changes in obesity that may cause these adverse effects are complex and include changes in circulating adipokines and sex steroids as well as insulin resistance. Considerable evidence suggests an adverse effect of obesity on the risk of miscarriage and other maternal and fetal complications. Obese patients are also more prone to infertility. The most important single method to improve reproductive performance in obese women is weight loss that can be achieved with lifestyle changes and diet. Antiobesity drugs may also be used and, in severe cases, bariatric surgery.
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