Gallstone Complications in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Finding out you have gallstones while expecting a baby can feel scary. The good news is that most women go through pregnancy without major gallbladder issues, and even when stones cause trouble, doctors have safe ways to help. This guide breaks down the signs, risks, and treatment options so you can stay comfortable and protect your little one.

Common Symptoms and When to Seek Help

Gallstones often stay silent, but pregnancy can bring on pain because hormones relax the gallbladder and slow digestion. Look out for a sudden, sharp pain in the upper right abdomen that may spread to your shoulder or back. The pain usually lasts a few minutes to a few hours and can be triggered by a fatty meal.

Other clues include nausea, vomiting, fever, or a feeling of being bloated all the time. If you notice any of these along with a fever over 100.4°F (38°C), call your health provider right away. Infections like cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) can happen quickly and need treatment to keep both you and the baby safe.

Don’t ignore mild discomfort though. A gentle ultrasound can confirm whether stones are present and tell the doctor if they’re likely to cause trouble later in pregnancy.

Treatment Options That Keep Mom and Baby Safe

Most gallstone problems are handled without surgery. Your doctor may start with pain relief that’s safe in pregnancy, such as acetaminophen. Some physicians also use low‑dose opioids for short‑term relief if pain is severe, but they stay away from NSAIDs after the first trimester because of fetal risks.

If an infection is caught early, antibiotics like ampicillin‑sulbactam are commonly used and are considered safe during pregnancy. The key is to treat the infection fast to avoid a bigger issue that could force an early delivery.

When stones keep coming back or cause repeated attacks, surgery might be the best choice. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removing the gallbladder through tiny ports) is the standard. Doctors prefer to do it in the second trimester, when the uterus isn’t too big and the baby’s organs are well‑formed, which lowers the risk of preterm labor.

In rare cases where surgery isn’t possible, doctors may place a stent in the bile duct to keep it open until after delivery. This is a temporary fix, but it can prevent dangerous blockages.

Preventing gallstone pain is also part of the plan. Stay on a balanced diet, keep fat intake moderate, and eat smaller meals throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps keep bile flowing, and gentle exercise like walking can aid digestion.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique. Talk openly with your OB‑GYN and a gastroenterologist if you have gallstones. With the right monitoring and timely care, you can get through pregnancy comfortably and keep your baby healthy.