Gallbladder 101: what it is and what it does

A simple explanation of anatomy and bile physiology.

Where is the gallbladder?

The gallbladder sits under the liver in the right upper abdomen. It connects to the bile ducts, which drain bile from the liver into the small intestine.

What is bile?

Bile is a digestive fluid produced by the liver. It contains bile salts, cholesterol, bilirubin, and other substances. Its main job is to help digest fats and help the body absorb fat‑soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).

What does the gallbladder do?

• Stores bile between meals
• Concentrates bile by absorbing water
• Contracts after meals, especially fatty meals, to deliver bile into the gut

What changes after gallbladder removal?

After cholecystectomy, bile flows directly from the liver into the intestine. Most people digest normally. A minority experience temporary loose stools or fat intolerance, usually improving over weeks to months.