Judgment. Patronization. Knowing that their very real symptoms might be dismissed entirely. Concerns like these deter countless clinically obese women from seeing the doctor. It’s one of many reasons why they are at higher risk of abnormal bleeding, infertility, incontinence, liver disease, sleep apnea, and a host of other medical conditions.
Matthew T. Bigos, MD is determined to retire this terrible reality for good. The Premier Women's Health of MN - OBGYN West obstetrician-gynecologist, who sees patients at four clinics in Chaska, Eden Prairie, Minnetonka and Waconia, has not developed a weight loss program per se. Instead, Dr. Bigos has adapted a model of effective, compassionate care to the unique needs of more than one-third of women in the United States.
“I joined OBGYN West because I fully support its mission,” said Dr. Bigos. “That includes providing comprehensive care to all women, regardless of whomever they happen to be, in an open and caring environment.
“Around five years ago, I came to a realization. Too many of our patients were being referred to bariatric clinics – reputable treatment centers in their own right, but not ones that emphasize general wellness. I did not like seeing those patients distanced from the primary care physicians who already understood not just their preexisting conditions, but who they are as people.
“That’s why I developed a new approach to weight management that can be practiced alongside regular care. The program, which is fully in line with American Medical Association standards, is centered around three pillars: diet, exercise, and medication.
“Creating a healthy diet isn’t as simple as picking out a meal plan. It requires the physician to help their patient understand their one-of-a-kind relationship with food. Once I share those insights with my patient, we are ready to co-develop a personal dietary plan that is just as sustainable as it is practical. All of their food will still come from the grocery store.
“I don’t instruct my patient to go to the gym or follow some strict exercise regimen. All I really ask is that they exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. And I use the word ‘exercise’ loosely. Research shows that no single form of physical activity has greater health benefits than any other. It doesn’t matter if it’s yoga, pickleball, or a walk around the block. It’s great so long as you enjoy it and it gets your heart moving.
“Finally, there is the medication element of the program. I may prescribe Saxenda, Wegovy, Zepbound, or any other FDA approved medication so long as it aligns with my patient’s weight loss goal and medical history. If a patient has thyroid disease, hypertension, PCOS, or some other preexisting condition, then I make certain their prescription promises the least possible interference with their existing care.”
“Women can struggle with their weight for any number of reasons,” said Dr. Jennifer Smolinski, another OBGYN West clinician (who also happens to be Dr. Bigos’ wife). “Menopause, pregnancy, and virtually any other hormonal or metabolic changes can cause weight gain. It’s typically the symptom my patients are most concerned about, which is why I refer many of them to my husband. His program truly helps women regain their ability to lose weight through the powers of empathy, shared decision making, and shared goals.”
“This program is successful even when weight loss is moderate,” continued Dr. Bigos. “Reduction as low as five percent is almost always accompanied by improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also lessens symptoms of fatty liver, reduces diabetic dependence on insulin, and helps women with PCOS ovulate on a more regular basis. Just one of those outcomes can change any woman’s life for the better: every OBGYN West physician's ultimate goal.”
Call (952) 249-2000 or visit premierwomenshealthmn.com/obgynwest today to schedule a virtual or in-person consultation with Dr. Bigos.
"...providing comprehensive care to all women, regardless of whomever they happen to be, in an open and caring environment."