Motherhood is a transformative journey filled with joy and challenges. While nurturing a newborn, a mother’s health is crucial, as it directly impacts the child’s well-being. Pregnancy brings significant hormonal and physical changes, which sometimes lead to unexpected health concerns, including gallbladder issues. Research reveals that pregnant women face a higher risk of such problems due to the body’s altered physiology.
Dr Amita Jain, Delhi and Gurgaon’s top laparoscopic surgeon, and specialist for gallbladder explains the common gallbladder problems during pregnancy and their management.
What is the Gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that is responsible for storing bile. Bile, produced by the liver, aids in digesting fats. During digestion, the gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine to break down fatty foods.
What is the Impact of Pregnancy on the Gallbladder?
Pregnancy significantly affects the gallbladder, increasing the risk of complications. About 12% of pregnant women develop gallstones, with gallbladder removal being one of the most common non-obstetric surgeries during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, particularly elevated progesterone, slow gallbladder emptying, promoting gallstone formation. Additionally, the expanding uterus exerts pressure on digestive organs, further impacting gallbladder function.
When the gallbladder fails to empty properly, bile builds up, leading to digestion problems, especially after fatty meals. This can result in sharp abdominal pain or a gallbladder attack, which often starts near the sternum or the right side of the abdomen and radiates to the back.
What are the Types of Gallbladder Problems During Pregnancy
Gallstones
Hormonal changes increase cholesterol secretion and slow bile release, forming hard deposits in the gallbladder. Gallstones can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and jaundice. While many gallstones are asymptomatic, they can obstruct bile ducts, causing inflammation or infection. Most cases are managed conservatively during pregnancy, with surgery considered if complications arise. Postpartum, rapid weight loss can increase the risk, so gradual weight reduction under medical guidance is recommended. A healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber can help prevent gallstones.
Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Hormonal changes can slow bile flow, causing cholestasis. Symptoms include intense itching, particularly on the palms and soles, dark urine, jaundice, and light-colored stools. This condition, typically seen in the second or third trimester, may increase the risk of premature birth and stillbirth. Ursodeoxycholic acid is commonly prescribed to relieve itching. Cholestasis usually resolves after delivery but may recur in future pregnancies, especially in women over 35 or with a personal or family history of the condition.
Biliary Colic
This condition involves sharp abdominal pain after consuming fatty meals, caused by gallstones blocking bile ducts. The pain can radiate to the back or right shoulder and may last from minutes to hours. Accompanying symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and a low-grade fever. Pregnant women experiencing biliary colic should avoid eating until the pain subsides. If symptoms persist, hospitalization or surgery may be required.
Biliary Sludge
Prolonged bile retention during pregnancy can lead to biliary sludge, a mix of mucus, cholesterol, and calcium salts. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. While often asymptomatic, biliary sludge can develop into gallstones. The condition typically resolves after delivery. Maintaining a balanced diet can help reduce the risk.
Gallbladder problems, such as gallstones, cholestasis, biliary colic, and biliary sludge, are relatively common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and physical stress on the body. Identifying symptoms early and seeking medical advice can help manage these conditions effectively, ensuring the mother’s health and the baby’s safety. Proper care, diet adjustments, and medical supervision are key to navigating these challenges during pregnancy.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi