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What is cholestasis of pregnancy?

Cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition in which the normal flow of bile in the gallbladder is affected by the high amounts of pregnancy hormones. Some women experience a very severe itching in late pregnancy. The most common cause of this is Cholestasis; a common liver disease that only happens in pregnancy. Cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition in which the normal flow of bile in the gallbladder is slowed or stopped resulting in itching and jaundice (yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes). Although it may begin in early pregnancy, cholestasis is more common in the last trimester of pregnancy and usually goes away within a few days after delivery. Cholestasis of pregnancy occurs in about one to two women out of 1,000 overall, but it is more likely in Swedish and Chilean populations, and possibly in multiple pregnancies. It has a high risk of reoccurrence in future pregnancies. It is also known as intrahepatic (in the liver) cholestasis of pregnancy and pruritus gravidarum (severe itching).

 

More information on cholestasis

What's cholestasis? - Cholestasis is a condition caused by rapidly developing or chronic interruption in the excretion of bile. Cholestasis is the obstruction of the flow of bile from the gall bladder.
What causes cholestasis? - Cholestasis is related to a transient injury. Cholestasis can also be the result of liver diseases such as sclerosing cholangitis, biliary atresia, primary biliary cirrhosis, and others.
What're the symptoms of cholestasis? - Symptoms of both intrahepatic and extrahepatic cholestasis include a yellow discoloration of the skin (jaundice), dark urine, and pale stools.
How is cholestasis diagnosed? - A history of hepatitis or heavy drinking, recent use of certain drugs, and symptoms like ascites and splenomegaly suggest intrahepatic cholestasis.
What's the treatment for cholestasis? - The goal of treatment for cholestasis is to eliminate or control the patient's symptoms. Cholestasis often does not respond to medical therapy of any sort.
What is cholestasis of pregnancy? - Cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition in which the normal flow of bile in the gallbladder is affected by the high amounts of pregnancy hormones.
What causes cholestasis of pregnancy? - Pregnancy hormones affect gallbladder function, resulting in slowing or stopping of the flow of bile.
What's the treatment for cholestasis of pregnancy? - The goals of treating cholestasis of pregnancy are to relieve the itching and prevent complications.
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