women s health issues
Liver and Gallbladder Disorders During Pregnancy
Cholestasis of pregnancy
The normal hormonal effects of pregnancy can slow the movement of bile through the bile ducts. This slowing is called Cholestasis . Cholestasis of pregnancy can increase the risk of the following: Preterm (Premature) Newborns None Stillbirth None Passage of stool (meconium) by the fetus before birth, which can lead to breathing problems in the fetus (called Meconium Aspiration Syndrome ) The most obvious symptom of cholestasis of pregnancy is intense itching all over the body (usually in the 2nd or 3rd trimester). No rash develops. Urine may be dark, and Jaundice in Adults may develop. For intense itching, a medication called ursodeoxycholic acid, taken by mouth, may be prescribed. Cholestasis of pregnancy usually resolves after delivery but tends to recur in subsequent pregnancies or with use of oral contraceptives. 