A prospective study of 572 pregnant women referred for obstetric ultrasound examination was conducted to assess the prevalence of cholelithiasis in:Xthis group. Gallstones were found in 4.2% of the women (90% confidence interval = 2.&8-5.6%). An increased prevalence of gallstones was related to increasing age, body weight, body mass index, and symptoms of previous right upper qjuadrant pain. No significant effect was seen with respect to racial background, family history of gallstones, use of contraceptives, or alcohol abuse. Screening for gallstones during pregnancy, if done at all, may have value if reserved for the older, obese, or symptomatic pregnant women.
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