Cholestasis of pregnancy, also called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), is a liver condition that develops during pregnancy. It occurs when the normal flow of bile from the liver slows or stops, causing bile acids to build up in the bloodstream.
The most common symptom is intense itching, especially on the hands and feet, usually without a rash. If left untreated, cholestasis of pregnancy can increase the risk of complications, including preterm birth.
Since 2003, Birth Injury Lawyers Group has been helping families affected by medical negligence. If your pregnancy was affected by cholestasis of pregnancy, an experienced birth injury lawyer from our compassionate and dedicated team can help.
Common Symptoms of Cholestasis of Pregnancy
The most common sign of cholestasis of pregnancy is severe itching that develops without a rash. Symptoms often begin during the third trimester and may become more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses.
Common symptoms of cholestasis of pregnancy include:
- Intense itching, especially on the hands and feet: The itching is often severe and may be the first or only symptom of the condition.
- Itching that is worse at night: Many people notice that the itching becomes more intense in the evening, making it difficult to sleep.
- No visible rash: Unlike many skin conditions, cholestasis usually causes severe itching without any rash or skin irritation.
- Dark-colored urine: Changes in bile flow can cause urine to appear darker than normal.
- Pale or light-colored stools: Some people develop unusually light-colored bowel movements because bile is not reaching the digestive tract normally.
- Fatigue: Ongoing itching and changes in liver function can leave a person feeling tired and lacking energy.
- Nausea or loss of appetite: Some people experience stomach discomfort, nausea, or a decreased desire to eat.
- Jaundice (in some cases): Although less common, the skin and whites of the eyes may develop a yellow tint if bile builds up in the body.
If you experience severe itching during pregnancy (especially itching on your hands or feet without a rash), contact your healthcare provider promptly. Early diagnosis, blood testing, and appropriate treatment can help reduce the risk of complications. Birth Injury Lawyers Group can determine if your medical provider screened properly for cholestasis of pregnancy.
"If your child was born with a birth injury, or cerebral palsy, we can help."
How Cholestasis of Pregnancy Can Affect Pregnancy
Cholestasis of pregnancy can increase the risk of serious complications if it is not diagnosed and managed appropriately. Although many people with the condition go on to have healthy pregnancies, close medical supervision helps protect both the mother and baby. Birth Injury Lawyers Group will review your medical records.
Potential complications of cholestasis of pregnancy include:
- Preterm birth: Cholestasis may increase the likelihood of a baby being born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, which can lead to additional health concerns.
- Fetal distress: Elevated bile acid levels may affect the baby before birth, increasing the risk of fetal distress and the need for prompt medical intervention.
- Meconium-stained amniotic fluid: Babies exposed to cholestasis are more likely to pass meconium before birth, which can increase the risk of breathing problems if it is inhaled during delivery.
- Stillbirth: In severe cases, untreated or poorly managed cholestasis of pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of stillbirth. This is one of the reasons why careful monitoring and appropriate delivery planning are so important.
- Maternal discomfort and sleep disruption: Severe itching, especially at night, can interfere with sleep, affect daily life, and reduce a mother’s overall well-being throughout pregnancy.
Because the risks associated with cholestasis can change as pregnancy progresses, healthcare providers should closely monitor both the mother and baby. Blood tests, fetal monitoring, and regular prenatal visits can help detect changes early and guide treatment decisions.
Can Cholestasis of Pregnancy Lead to Birth Injuries?
Cholestasis of pregnancy does not typically cause a birth injury on its own. However, when the condition is not diagnosed, monitored, or treated properly, it can increase the risk of serious complications that may affect the baby’s health.
Elevated bile acid levels and other complications associated with untreated cholestasis can place stress on the baby and require careful medical management. Healthcare providers should recognize the warning signs of cholestasis and take action when risks develop. Birth Injury Lawyers Group can help you take legal action if your baby was harmed by medical negligence.
"We know first-hand what you are going through."
Compassionate Birth Injury Lawyers Can Help if Cholestasis of Pregnancy Harmed Your Baby
If your baby suffered injuries after cholestasis of pregnancy was not properly diagnosed or managed, you may have questions about whether the appropriate standard of medical care was provided. Our experienced birth injury lawyers will get you the answers you need.
At Birth Injury Lawyers Group, we have recovered over $750 million for our clients. We are proud to be a nationally recognized birth injury lawyer team that has obtained record-setting verdicts for clients throughout the U.S. Call today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your next steps.
"We are committed to helping families who have suffered medical negligence."