overview
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, commonly known as cholestasis of pregnancy, is a liver disease that occurs in late pregnancy. The condition causes severe itching, but without a rash. Itching usually occurs on the hands and feet, but it can affect other parts of the body as well.
Pregnancy cholestasis can make you extremely uncomfortable. However, the potential complications for you and your baby are more worrying. Because of the risk of complications, your doctor may recommend early delivery. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy Treatment in Khammam
symptoms
Severe itching is the main symptom of cholestasis in pregnancy. There is no rash. Most women itch on the palms of their hands or the soles of their feet, but some women itch all over. The itching is often worse at night and can be so bothersome that you cannot sleep.
Itching is more common in the third trimester of pregnancy, but sometimes starts earlier. It can be worse as your due date approaches. However, once your baby arrives, the itchiness usually goes away within a few days.
Other less common signs and symptoms of cholestasis in pregnancy may include:
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice)
- nausea
- Loss of appetite
The reasons
The cause of pregnancy cholestasis is unclear. Your genes can play a role. Sometimes the condition runs in families. Some genetic variants have also been identified.
Pregnancy hormones can also be involved. Pregnancy hormones increase as you near your due date. Doctors believe it can slow the normal flow of bile – the digestive fluid made in the liver that helps your digestive system break down fat. Instead of leaving the liver, bile accumulates in the organ. As a result, the bile salts eventually get into the bloodstream, which can be itchy. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy Treatment in Khammam
Risk factors
Some factors that can increase your risk of developing cholestasis during pregnancy include:
- Personal or family history of cholestasis in pregnancy
- A history of liver damage or disease
- Being pregnant with twins or more
Complications
Complications of cholestasis of pregnancy can occur in the mother or in the developing baby.
In mothers, the condition can temporarily affect the way the body absorbs fat. Poor fat intake can lead to a decrease in the levels of vitamin K-dependent factors involved in blood clotting. However, this complication is rare, and future liver problems are rare. Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy Treatment in Khammam
In babies, complications from cholestasis during pregnancy can be serious. They can include:
- To be born prematurely (premature birth)
prevention
There is no known way to prevent cholestasis in pregnancy.