Detecting obstetric cholestasis, excessive itching during pregnancy & bull; hello healthy

Mild hives are common in pregnancy, due to the increased blood flow to the skin. As the uterus grows, the skin on the stomach will also pull and cause itching. Mild itching is not something to worry about, but if the itching gets worse, it could be a sign of a liver condition, namely obstetric cholestasis or intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). This condition occurs in less than 1 in 100 pregnant women, but still requires medical attention.

Mild itching

Wearing loose clothing can prevent itching, because the clothes will rub against the skin less which can cause irritation. Also avoid using synthetic materials and use natural materials, such as cotton, which can provide air circulation. Bathing in cool water and using lotion or moisturizer can relieve itching.

Some women experience skin irritation when using products with strong perfumes, so choose products without fragrances. Mild itching generally doesn't harm you or your baby, but it could be a sign of a more serious condition. If you are worried or have severe itching, see your doctor.

Serious itching: obstetric cholestasis

Obstetric cholestasis or Obstetric cholestasis (obstetric cholestasis) or Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) is a potentially serious disorder that can occur during pregnancy. Normally, bile salts flow from the liver to the intestines to aid digestion. In obstetric cholestasis, bile salts do not flow and thus accumulate in the body. There is no treatment for obstetric cholestasis, but it will go away on its own when your baby is born.

Obstetric cholestasis runs in families, but can also occur without a family history. Obstetric cholestasis is also more common in Indian and Pakistani women. If you have had obstetric cholestasis during a previous pregnancy, it is likely that you will have it again the next time you become pregnant. Several studies have found that babies of mothers with obstetric cholestasis are more likely to be born prematurely or fall. It is still not known how high the risk of failure is in people with obstetric cholestasis compared to women who do not have obstetric cholestasis. There is no specific way to guarantee that the baby will not be dropped.

Regarding the delivery of the baby, if you have obstetric cholestasis, you may be offered labor induction or a cesarean section after 37 weeks of pregnancy. You are advised to deliver in the hospital, under the supervision of a medical team.

Symptoms of obstetric cholestasis

The main symptom of obstetric cholestasis is severe itching all over your body, usually without a rash and generally occurring in the last 4 months of pregnancy. Some women experience severe itching and rashes. In women with obstetric cholestasis, the itching is unbearable and persistent, worsening at night. Sometimes itching is more pronounced on the palms and soles of the feet.

Other symptoms include cloudy urine, jaundice (on the skin or whites of the eyes) and pale stools.

Managing obstetric cholestasis

Obstetric cholestasis can be diagnosed by looking at your medical history or family history, as well as blood tests that test liver function or Liver Function Tests (LFT). After a diagnosis of obstetric cholestasis, you will undergo several liver tests until your baby is born, so that the doctor can monitor your condition. If your test results are normal and you still feel itching, the test can be repeated every 1 or 2 weeks.

Creams such as calamine lotion are safe to use during pregnancy and can relieve itching. There are also drugs that can reduce the level of bile salts and relieve itching, but they are not known to be safe when used while pregnant.

You may be given vitamin K supplements, as obstetric cholestasis can affect the absorption of vitamin K, which is important for healthy blood clotting. If you are diagnosed with obstetric cholestasis, your doctor will discuss your health and some treatment options with you.