Postpartum Gallstones: A High Risk For Women

My article in oneindia.com : http://www.boldsky.com/pregnancy-parenting/postnatal/2013/postpartum-gallstones-women-033865.html

Gallstones are formed due to the blockage in the ducts of the gallbladder. When compared to men, women have a greater risk of getting gallbladder stones. Gallbladder stones will ultimately result in inflammation or infection. Gallstones are not uncommon found in women after delivery. Women are generally more prone to get gallstones than men. During pregnancy and after delivery, the chances are more due to various reasons associated with pregnancy and body changes due to it. Here are some common causes for postpartum gallstones.

Postpartum Gallstones: A High Risk For Women  

1.Progesterone: Gallstones are more common in women during postpartum state because of the action of various hormones in the body, especially progesterone. Progesterone causes muscles to relax and this will affect the gallbladder as well. The relaxation of muscles of the gallbladder will slows down the bile flow. The bile that doesn’t get released may result in the formation of bile stones.

2.Obesity: Most women face rapid gain of weight during or after pregnancy. This remains as an important reason for the formation of gallstones. Weight gain result in the production and secretion of increased amount of cholesterol. This increases the risk for development of postpartum gallstones.

3.Multiple pregnancies: Women who come across multiple pregnancies are at higher risk to get postpartum gallstones. The major reason is the increased amount of progesterone that the body has to come across during each pregnancy. Progesterone will reduce the contractibility of the gallbladder and result in bile retention and will lead to gallstone formation.

4.Heredity: Women who have a family history of gallstones are more prone to get it after delivery. There are many genes that are found to be responsible for the formation of gallstones. Those who have heredity of having gallstones should report it to the doctor to get proper medical advice.

5.Advanced pregnancy age: Women who get pregnant after 35 years are at higher risk of getting gallstones. Advanced age is a common risk factor for the formation of gallstones and pregnancy at this age will increase the chance. The action of various hormones at an advanced age will cause postpartum gallstones.

6.Previous history: Women who have a previous history of gallstones have a higher chance to get it after child birth as well. If you have a history of gallstones, you may get a relapse after the childbirth. The action of hormones will keep women who have a previous history of gallstone at a higher risk.

7.Rapid weight loss: Sudden weight loss is also a cause for the formation of gallstones. When women come across a sudden loss of weight, extra cholesterol will accumulate in bile which may finally lead to the formation of gallstones.

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