Lose weight or just get on with it?

[Fattybonbon]

Hi everyone, would really appreciate some advice.

I'm 38 and have not yet started a family. I was very unwell with major depression (caused by a traumatic life event) a few years ago and this has delayed any TTC plans, as both my DH and I wanted me to be fully recovered mentally before starting a family. I have been back to normal for over a year and so feel ready to try.

However, when I was ill I put on a lot of weight (wasn't helped by medications). My BMI is now around 39. I'm quite worried that this may cause fertility issues but I am also very aware that it may cause problems with the pregnancy even if I am lucky enough to conceive.

So what I can't decide is - should I make a massive effort to lose a decent amount of weight before TTC? Or, given my age, should I accept the risks and just go for it?

I'm in a similar position. I don't think it would hurt to focus on weight loss and being more active. From what I've googled it seems it's helped some conceive. Even if the risks are low, your energy levels would at least improve and help you with the physical changes that are going to happen. It can only be a bonus, just keep a healthy balanced diet.

Both!

Don’t put off your weight loss, your chances of conceiving will improve if you are fitter. If you wait until you are a particular weight before trying, you’re losing time.

Start both and when you get pregnant speak to the midwife/ health visitor about his to keep up getting fitter whilst pregnant.

Both. Weight loss aids conception so get losing weight and shagging!

I think women of your BMI are recommended to not gain weight during pregnancy, so you can lose weight while TTC and then aim to maintain once you're pregnant.

I mean, don't starve yourself, but a healthy balanced diet of around 1700 calories per day with a bit of light exercise should be enough for weight loss. I used the free Myfitnesspal app to track my calories (I was an obese BMI and am now just in the normal range).

I wouldn't stress yourself out too much about it though. Well done on your MH recovery and good luck starting a family! It's the best decision I ever made.

I would do them both alongside each other. Start focusing on losing weight while taking folic acid and ditching the contraception.