Gallstones are a common digestive health issue, but did you know that women are significantly more likely to develop them than men? At the practice of Dr. David P. Yamini, serving patients in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, we frequently treat women dealing with gallbladder pain, inflammation, or complications due to gallstones. Understanding the gender-specific risks of gallstones can help you know when to seek medical evaluation—and when treatment may be necessary.
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. They are made primarily of cholesterol or bilirubin and can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. In many cases, people with gallstones experience no symptoms. However, when a stone blocks the bile ducts, it can cause intense pain and digestive complications.
This condition is known as cholelithiasis, and it affects approximately 10–15% of the U.S. population, with women accounting for the majority of cases.
Why Are Women at Greater Risk?
There are several reasons why women are at higher risk for gallstones:
1. Hormonal Factors
Estrogen appears to play a key role in gallstone formation. Higher estrogen levels increase cholesterol in bile and decrease gallbladder movement, making stone formation more likely.
This is why gallstones are more common in:
- Women of reproductive age
- Pregnant women
- Women taking oral contraceptives
- Women on hormone replacement therapy
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, women between the ages of 20 and 60 are up to three times more likely than men to develop gallstones.
2. Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a significant risk factor for gallstones due to elevated hormone levels and slower gallbladder emptying. Gallstones often develop during or shortly after pregnancy, sometimes leading to complications that require treatment.
3. Body Weight and Diet
Women with higher body mass index (BMI) or who have rapidly lost weight are also at increased risk. Diets high in fat and refined carbohydrates can further contribute to gallstone formation.
4. Genetics and Ethnicity
Some women may have a genetic predisposition. Gallstones are more common in certain ethnic groups, including Hispanic women and Native American women.
Symptoms to Watch For
While some gallstones are “silent,” others can cause painful symptoms, especially when they obstruct the bile ducts.
Common signs include:
- Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating after meals
- Pain between the shoulder blades
- Fever or jaundice in severe cases
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a specialist like Dr. Yamini, who can evaluate your condition and determine the right course of action.
When Is Treatment Recommended?
If gallstones are causing symptoms or complications, treatment is usually recommended. The most effective and common treatment is cholecystectomy, or surgical removal of the gallbladder. At Dr. Yamini’s practice, we offer minimally invasive laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, which typically involves:
- Small incisions
- Faster recovery times
- Less post-operative pain
- Same-day or next-day discharge in most cases
In some cases, non-surgical treatment options such as medication or dietary management may be considered, especially if the stones are not causing symptoms.
Trusted Gallbladder Specialist in Santa Monica and Beverly Hills
With years of experience in digestive health and minimally invasive surgery, Dr. David P. Yamini is a trusted resource for women suffering from gallstones and gallbladder disease. He takes a personalized approach to treatment, considering your symptoms, lifestyle, and long-term health goals.
Whether you’re in Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, or anywhere in the Los Angeles area, our offices provide compassionate, expert care for gallstone issues—from diagnosis to treatment and beyond.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re a woman experiencing gallbladder pain or digestive discomfort, don’t wait to get answers. Contact Dr. David P. Yamini’s office to schedule a consultation and find out if gallstones could be the cause—and what you can do to feel better.
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