Breaking the Fertility-Obesity Cycle: Expert Insights from Dr. Toby Angstmann
Obesity is more than a number on the scale—it’s a complex condition that can impact nearly every system in the body, including reproductive health. In this powerful episode of the Australian Weight Loss Surgery Podcast, Dr. Toby Angstmann, fertility specialist at Flinders Fertility, joins Jacqui Lewis, Clinical Director of BN Healthy and experienced bariatric nutritionist, to explore how obesity intersects with fertility and what couples can do to overcome it. With insights into hormonal balance, fertility preservation, and the role of bariatric surgery, this episode is a must-listen for anyone planning or struggling to start a family.
Understanding the Connection Between Obesity and Fertility
Obesity is one of the leading, yet often overlooked, contributors to infertility in both men and women. Dr. Angstmann explains that excess weight can disrupt the delicate hormonal system responsible for ovulation and sperm production. In women, obesity is strongly linked to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin resistance, and irregular menstrual cycles. In men, it can lower testosterone levels and affect sperm quality, quantity, and motility.
“Obesity is not just personal choice but involves genetic predisposition, epigenetic factors, and societal conditioning.” — Dr. Toby Angstmann
What makes this even more challenging is that many couples don’t realize how significantly weight affects their fertility until they begin trying to conceive. This is where education, support, and comprehensive care play a vital role
Why Couples Should Tackle Fertility and Weight Together
One of the most impactful takeaways from this episode is the importance of approaching both fertility and weight loss as a team effort. According to Dr. Angstmann, couples who work together—whether it’s through shared lifestyle changes, joint consultations, or emotional support—are more likely to see success.
“The desire to become a parent can be a powerful motivator for health changes.” — Dr. Toby Angstmann
Jacqui Lewis, a trusted voice in bariatric nutrition, adds that these health shifts don’t have to be extreme. Small, consistent changes in nutrition, sleep, stress, and physical activity can dramatically improve outcomes over time. More importantly, they help both partners feel empowered, supported, and seen throughout what can be a vulnerable and emotionally charged experience.
Bariatric Surgery: A Game-Changer for Fertility
For individuals with severe or treatment-resistant obesity, bariatric surgery may offer not just weight loss—but a restoration of reproductive function. Dr. Angstmann explains how procedures like gastric sleeve or bypass can lead to the return of regular menstrual cycles, improved ovulation, and better IVF outcomes.
“Bariatric surgery can reverse many metabolic complications affecting fertility.” — Dr. Toby Angstmann
However, it’s not a silver bullet. Dr. Angstmann and Jacqui stress the importance of timing, planning, and proper post-op care. Women who undergo surgery are usually advised to wait 12–18 months before trying to conceive, to allow the body to stabilize. During that time, Jacqui Lewis works with patients to rebuild nutrient stores, monitor vitamin levels, and prepare their bodies for a healthy pregnancy.
Fertility Preservation: Planning Ahead with Confidence
One of the most empowering strategies discussed in this episode is fertility preservation—a proactive approach for those undergoing significant medical or lifestyle changes. Whether it’s egg freezing, sperm banking, or embryo storage, these tools provide options for individuals who want to prioritize their health now and plan for pregnancy later.
“Even if we have to do the fertility preservation work and then work on the obesity side of things and come back to the parenting bit—it’s absolutely possible.” — Dr. Toby Angstmann
This segment also breaks down the process of fertility preservation, including success rates, ideal timing, and who might benefit most. For people not ready or able to conceive right away, this approach offers hope, flexibility, and peace of mind.
There Is a Path Forward—And Support Makes the Difference
Fertility can be an emotional rollercoaster—but with the right team around you, the journey becomes more manageable and hopeful. Dr. Angstmann and Jacqui emphasize the importance of collaborative care—where fertility specialists, nutritionists, surgeons, and counselors come together to create a patient-centered plan that’s tailored and compassionate.
“It might seem impossible… but it’s not. I have a wall of baby photos to prove it.” — Dr. Toby Angstmann
By recognizing obesity as a medical condition and fertility as a dynamic process influenced by many factors, this episode breaks the cycle of blame and stigma. It replaces it with empowerment, science, and strategy—helping people make informed, life-changing decisions about their health and future families.
Listen Now: Breaking the Fertility-Obesity Cycle
If you or your partner are trying to conceive and struggling with obesity-related fertility issues, this episode is your roadmap. From expert medical insights to emotional encouragement and practical steps—you’ll walk away informed, inspired, and ready to move forward.
📱 Stream it now on the Australian Weight Loss Surgery Podcast.
🔍 Episode Highlights
Understanding how obesity impacts fertility in both sexes
Role of PCOS, insulin resistance, and hormones in infertility
How couples can support each other on the fertility journey
Bariatric surgery and pregnancy planning
Egg freezing and fertility preservation options
Nutrition and post-surgery pregnancy preparation
Expert support from fertility doctors and bariatric dietitians
👨⚕️ About Dr. Toby Angstmann
Fertility Specialist at Flinders Fertility
Instagram: @doctor.tobyangstmann
LinkedIn: Dr. Toby Angstmann
🍎 About Jacqui Lewis
Clinical Director of BN Healthy
Podcast Host, Bariatric Nutritionist
Instagram: @bn.healthy
A great article with lots of valuable information! The website is well-organized and easy
to navigate.
Good https://lc.cx/xjXBQT
Very good https://short-url.org/10VGf
Awesome https://t.ly/tndaA
Awesome https://t.ly/tndaA