In pregnancy, cholestasis can cause complications

Involvement of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts characterizes the disease known as cholestasis. One of two possibilities exists. Cholestasis outside of the liver is known as extrahepatic cholestasis (also known as non-obstetric cholestasis). Cholestasis that occurs within the liver is called intrahepatic cholestasis or obstetric cholestasis. Hormones alter the bile's path through the gallbladder and bile ducts in pregnant women. This results in bile accumulating in the liver and eventually leaking into the bloodstream.

It is estimated that 1 in 200 pregnant women will develop obstetric cholestasis, a type of liver disease that is directly linked to pregnancy. It's characterized by itchiness, elevated serum aminotransferases and bile acids, and symptoms that resolve on their own within two to three weeks following birth.

Preterm delivery, fetal discomfort, and even stillbirth have all been linked to severe cases of obstetric cholestasis. To avoid these problems and lower the risks to you and your child, surgery is often the best option.

Ursodeoxycholic acid, a therapy for obstetric cholestasis, is available. It prevents oxidative stress and thrombotic problems by shielding interstitial Cajal-like cells in the gallbladder from apoptosis.

Intrahepatic cholestasis, commonly known as "cholestasis of pregnancy," is a liver condition that can manifest itself during pregnancy. In order to make the diagnosis, your doctor will perform a physical examination and order blood tests to evaluate your liver's health.

There will also be tests to determine your bile acid levels. Pregnancy-related cholestasis is more likely to occur in women with higher bile acid levels.

Rare and treatable, intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy usually manifests in the second half of pregnancy. Ten percent of individuals will develop jaundice as a result of the intense pruritus and the increase in total serum bile acids.

Itching without a rash is a possible symptom of obstetric cholestasis, commonly known as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. It usually begins in the third trimester and subsides once the baby is born.

When bile, a digestive fluid that aids in fat digestion, is blocked from passing from the liver to the small intestine, a condition known as cholestasis develops. Itching is brought on by the accumulation of bile acids in the blood.

A pregnant woman's blood coagulation may be affected by the bile acids, and she may also have trouble absorbing fat. There is a possibility that this could impair the health of her unborn child, possibly leading to preterm labor or even stillbirth.

Cholestasis develops when there is a blockage in the bile's regular drainage. Cholesterol, bilirubin, and bile acids build up as a result.

Cholestasis develops when bile flow in the hepatocytes or cholangiocytes becomes blocked. Numerous factors can contribute to its occurrence.

Gallbladder obstruction is a common source of this problem (bile ducts). An obstruction in the liver or bile ducts can also be to blame.

Medication to aid bile flow through the digestive system may be necessary. You may experience less itching and see your bile levels stabilize after doing this.

Cholestasis occurs when bile production in the liver decreases or ceases altogether and then travels to the small intestine. The liver, the bile duct, or the pancreas can all play a role in causing this condition.

Your doctor will do additional diagnostic tests to help pinpoint the root cause of your obstetric cholestasis. A physical examination and blood tests will be performed to evaluate your liver health and bile acid levels.

It is common for obstetric cholestasis to clear up after giving birth. However, you'll still need to maintain regular monitoring for some time after giving birth. Ultrasounds and fetal heart monitors may be used to check on the health of your unborn child.