Obstetrics Cholestasis

If you’re experiencing intense itching (especially on the palms and soles) and suspect obstetric cholestasis, Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare provides prompt diagnosis, personalised treatment, and reassuring guidance throughout the rest of your pregnancy. Our private obstetricians carefully monitor liver function and bile acid levels, tailoring interventions to protect both you and your baby.

• Dedicated Expertise: Our team is highly experienced in managing intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, ensuring you receive up-to-date advice.
• Custom Monitoring Plans: We schedule regular blood tests and foetal wellbeing checks, adjusting care as needed.
• Collaboration with Specialists: If complications arise, we coordinate with liver specialists or foetal medicine experts for advanced care.
• Clear Delivery Planning: In cases of persistently high bile acids, we guide you on safe induction timelines or any additional measures for a healthy birth.

Understanding Obstetric Cholestasis

Obstetric cholestasis—also called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP)—occurs when bile flow from the liver is reduced or blocked, causing bile acids to build up in the bloodstream. Although it can develop at any time, it most frequently appears in the third trimester.

Common Symptoms

• Intense Itching: Often affecting hands and feet, usually worse at night.
• Dark Urine & Pale Stools: Due to disrupted bile flow.
• Mild Jaundice (Rare): Yellowing of the skin or eyes in some cases.

Potential Risks

• Foetal Distress: High bile acid levels can, in some instances, increase risks for the baby.
• Preterm Labour: There is a slightly higher chance of early delivery.
• Stillbirth (Rare): Although uncommon, the risk is somewhat elevated compared to uncomplicated pregnancies, highlighting the importance of close monitoring.

Diagnosis & Management

1. Blood Tests
• Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Checking enzymes like ALT, AST to spot liver stress.
• Serum Bile Acids: Elevated levels confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment steps.
2. Medication
• Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA): Helps lower bile acid levels and can reduce itching.
• Antihistamines or topical creams: Sometimes offered for symptom relief, though UDCA is the mainstay.
3. Regular Monitoring
• We’ll perform frequent blood tests to track bile acids.
• Foetal wellbeing scans assess growth and amniotic fluid levels, ensuring no signs of distress.
4. Delivery Considerations
• If bile acids remain high or rise significantly, early induction (usually around 37–38 weeks) may be discussed.
• Most symptoms resolve quickly after the baby’s birth, but postnatal follow-up ensures your liver function normalises.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Will obstetric cholestasis affect future pregnancies?
• There is an increased chance of recurrence. We recommend early monitoring in subsequent pregnancies.
2. Is my baby automatically at risk of complications?
• Not always. However, higher bile acid levels can increase certain risks, which is why regular antenatal checks are crucial.
3. Can itching alone harm my baby?
• The itching itself is not harmful to the baby, but it indicates elevated bile acids that need evaluation to reduce possible foetal risks.

Book Your Private Consultation

If you suspect obstetric cholestasis or notice intense itching in pregnancy, Grosvenor Gardens Healthcare is here to help. Our private obstetricians provide timely tests, effective treatment, and close monitoring, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment. Let our dedicated team support you through every step of managing obstetric cholestasis.

Other Services we offer: 

Private Gynaecologists

Private GP

Private Paediatrician

Private Obstetrician & Maternity Hospital

Private Colposcopy