Can the gallbladder remove gallstones by itself?

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located on the underside of the liver, on the right side of the abdomen. It stores and releases bile, a fluid that is produced in the liver and aids in the digestion of fats.

The gallbladder can sometimes remove gallstones by itself. This can occur if the gallstones are small and soft enough to pass through the gallbladder's cystic duct. In some cases, the gallbladder may be able to squeeze out larger gallstones by contracting and relaxing its muscles. The process can take several hours or days.

Typically, gallbladder stones larger than 3 mm (0.12 in) in diameter won't pass on their own and may require medical intervention.

Other gallstones may get stuck in the cystic duct, causing pain and inflammation. In these cases, medical treatment is necessary.

If you have gallstones and you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately.